Starting from the Back of the Grid: Misadventures Inside Formula One's Flying Circus

The hilarious and endearing story of how an academic flop with a prodigious talent for getting into embarrassing situations somehow succeeds in the glamorous world of Formula One.

The author, a TV producer and occasional cameraman, gives a distinctive perspective on F1’s Flying Circus, up close and personal with motorsport legends, A-list celebrities and the super-rich. He tells of his encounters with its greatest drivers and most intriguing behind-the-scenes personalities, and recalls the sport’s rivalries, tragedies and scandals.

He charts his own comedic career path from rough sleeper on a rubbish tip in Hong Kong to the paddock in Monte Carlo where his first words to Michael Schumacher caused the racing legend to inflate with rage. But a few traumatic days later he is sipping champagne high above the track on race day.

If you love Formula One and have a sense of humor, you will want to read this book.

Kris has worked as a freelance TV producer since 1993 for Star TV, the Golf Channel, BSkyB, Disney ESPN and Fox Sports covering Formula One, Formula E, other motorsports, boxing, American football and golf. He lives in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Ian worked in sales and marketing for technology companies and founded a management consultancy. He lives in north London.

Guenther Steiner is the Haas F1 Team Principal. He lives in Mooresville, North Carolina.