Another Old Stop knows only too well the joys of F1 racing – going from a fan to a part of the action, Peter Withers (OS 2017) collects and interprets race data to help give McLaren Racing the edge over its competitors.

Peter has always had a head for numbers. After studying Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths at A Level, Peter followed his love of science to Cambridge University where he studied Natural Science. However, it wasn’t purely his studies that led him to his future career.

While studying at university, Peter said he developed an interest in Formula One. He would spend weekends watching the races, and soon hoped to get into the industry.

“In my second year at uni I got really into F1 and I just started applying to jobs. I had always admired McLaren as a team and I was so happy to get to work with the team I had been watching on TV.

“I’ve been at McLaren for two years now and I love it.”

Peter is now a Senior Associate Simulation Development Engineer. His role involves maintaining the simulations produced from data on the race car which allows the team to quickly access stats during the race. The data can inform conditions such as which trye to use, or how low the car should sit on the track.

“When we run the cars during a race, we can’t have as many sensors on it as we might like, so part of my job is to use simulations to fill in the gaps so we can understand fully what’s going on with the car. My role within this is to find ways to present the data so it can be understood by other members of my team which will allow them to make those split-second decisions about the car and so on.

“We use the models to determine certain aspects of the car performance and help us to operate within the sport’s regulations.

“It can also determine how hot the tyres and engine is getting which is really valuable information to have during a race.”

Peter revealed his favourite experience he has had so far while working at McLaren.

“My favourite memories are from this season,” said Peter. “Seeing my first McLaren win in Miami was amazing. But I think my favourite memory is when I had the opportunity to be in mission control during the Silverstone race. It felt amazing to be in the heart of the action – it’s definitely something I won’t forget!”