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The race behind the race: DHL returns to Miami with the renewed partnership with Formula 1®


Press Release: Miami, Florida. May 1st, 2024

  • The first race in the United States this season involves managing logistics over 8,000 miles from Shanghai to Miami
  • DHL commemorates 20 years as the Official Logistics Partner of Formula 1

In February, DHL and Formula 1® renewed their partnership, entrusting DHL with the delivery of FIA Formula One World Championship™ events worldwide. With four decades of motorsports logistics expertise, DHL celebrates its 20th anniversary as the Official Logistics Partner of Formula 1, holding the distinction of the sport's longest-standing global partner. Over the course of 20 years, Formula 1 and DHL have undergone significant transformation, particularly in recent years, emphasizing sustainability and the development of sustainable logistics as Formula 1 continues its journey to being Net Zero by 2030.

This season marks a milestone with a record-breaking 24 races, reflecting the sport’s popularity, with Formula 1 also rationalizing the calendar to minimize its carbon footprint. In logistics, DHL employs multimodal logistics to promote environmental responsibility. Last year in Europe, the introduction of a fleet of biofuel-powered led to an impressive 83% reduction in emissions compared to conventional diesel trucks. This season, the number of biofuel-driven trucks will more than double to a total of 37 trucks. Additionally, in air freight, the use of fuel-efficient Boeing 777 aircraft further reduces emissions by 17% compared to traditional aircraft. Both DHL and Formula 1 remain committed to their green agenda and will explore further sustainable logistics initiatives in the upcoming season.

The FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX 2024 from May 3rd to 5th, is the first of three races in the country, where DHL continues to demonstrate its expertise in motorsports logistics. To ensure the smooth delivery of the Formula 1 freight spanning over 8,000 miles from Shanghai to Miami, it has been transported by air directly from China to Florida after the Chinese Grand Prix. Meanwhile, a substantial portion of the equipment has been in transit by sea for some time, with each team relying on multiple sea freight kits that shuttle between overseas destinations. DHL plays a crucial role in powering the enormous logistical effort of transporting up to 1,400 tons of high-value freight to each race, including race cars, tires, spare parts, fuel, broadcast equipment, and marketing and hospitality equipment. The DHL Motorsports logistics team consists of 100 specialists, with up to half on-site at the circuit to ensure the smooth operations of Formula 1 events.

Jonny Haworth, Director of Commercial Partnerships at Formula1, says: “As our longest-standing partner, DHL has become such a crucial part of the delivery of our events, so we’re delighted to continue that successful collaboration for many more years. Our partnership has seen the sport transform in more ways than one, and DHL have been hugely supportive in our transition to a more sustainable sport, and this will continue to be key as we move towards 2030. As sustainable logistics continues to develop, I look forward to seeing the positive impact and innovations that come next.”

Paul Fowler, Vice President of Global Motorsports Logistics at DHL Global Forwarding adds: “We are continuously exploring ways to achieve Formula 1’s Net Zero goal, and we are delighted to collaborate with a partner who shares our dedication to sustainability and is receptive to innovative green solutions.”

The DHL Group has set its own Net-Zero goal to reach by 2050. In the meantime, the Group has the goal by 2030 to implement fleet electrification, develop zero-emissions facilities, and use sustainable fuels across all transportation modes. In the Americas, DHL Express currently operates over 400 electric vehicles in its fleet, with an additional 200 on order. This investment in electrifying our fleet in the Americas region over the past five years exceeds $30 million.