While the spotlight remains firmly on the track, a meticulously planned operation unfolds behind the scenes to allow the future of women’s motorsport to compete at the highest level.

During an F1 ACADEMY race weekend, the action seen by fans is only the final layer of a process that begins months in advance. Before cars roll out of the garages, a complex structure transforms empty spaces into fully functioning paddocks capable of hosting teams, drivers and operations across seven circuits on three continents. At the heart of that operation is Georgie Watson, F1 ACADEMY’s Paddock Operations Manager, the person responsible for ensuring everything is exactly where it needs to be when the lights go out.

Her role is not measured in lap times or finishing positions, but in planning, logistical precision and adaptability. Every paddock presents unique challenges in terms of space, terrain and layout, requiring tailored solutions from the earliest discussions with promoters and circuits. “Every metre counts for us,” Watson explained, emphasizing that there is no standard blueprint and that each venue demands a different approach to maximize both functionality and experience.

That preparation intensifies once she arrives at the circuit, typically around two weeks before the event. At that point, the paddock is a blank canvas. Garages, offices, technical infrastructure and operational areas must be built from the ground up. This also includes coordinating fuel, power and freight (championship logistics) alongside DHL, ensuring every component arrives in the correct sequence and at the right time so teams can operate efficiently from the moment they arrive.

Beyond pure functionality, Watson also plays a crucial role in shaping F1 ACADEMY’s visual identity. The championship’s branding must be integrated in a way that is coherent, safe and visually impactful within the paddock environment. Creating a space that operates at the highest technical level while projecting the series’ ambition is one of the role’s biggest challenges. “Flexibility is essential. There is no one-size-fits-all solution,” she noted, highlighting the importance of creative thinking.

Before joining F1 ACADEMY, Watson gained experience within Formula 1, working in operations roles linked to Fan Zones and retail, primarily focused on pre-event and post-event delivery. Her degree in International Events Management proved instrumental in shaping a career that blends strategic planning with real-time execution in motorsport.

One of the most rewarding moments of her job comes when the cars leave the garages and head out on track for the first time each weekend. That is when the pressure eases and months of preparation become tangible. She also particularly enjoys the creative side of her role, designing paddocks that not only function seamlessly but also elevate F1 ACADEMY’s global image.

Challenges are constant. Watson acknowledges that the complexity of building full paddock structures under tight timelines is often underestimated. The ability to adapt on the fly is just as important as detailed planning. “There is always something different from what you designed on your laptop,” she said.

Joining F1 ACADEMY has been a defining step in Watson’s career, allowing her to be part of a series that is not only racing on track but actively reshaping opportunities within the sport. Support from leaders such as Delphine Biscaye, Head of Race Operations at F1 ACADEMY, has been key in driving both her development and the evolution of the paddock.

Her advice to anyone aspiring to work in motorsport is straightforward: “Being a hard worker is not a bad thing. Pushing yourself to find out what you can achieve is a reward in itself.” In a sport often defined by visible results, Georgie Watson proves that operational excellence is just as vital to success as what happens on track.

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