Formula One together with the FIA have announced that Grid Kids will replace Grid Girls.

The initiative called Grid Kids will work with the Grand Prix promoters and ASNs – the FIA-recognised national sporting authorities – who will in turn provide a unique experience for youngsters and their parents to experience the build up to a race on the grid.

The FIA said in a statement that the youngsters on the grid will be chosen by their motorsport clubs on merit, or by lottery, and will already be competing in karting or junior formulae.

Grid kids will be chosen for each Formula 1 race and for the major F2 and GP3 series. They will be accompanied by their parents who will have paddock passes for the Sunday.

“Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motor sport and the dream of every young racer competing the junior series that make up the FIA’s single-seater pyramid, from karting all the way to F1,” said Jean Todt, President of the FIA.

“We are therefore delighted to bring that dream a little closer by giving the future champions of our sport the opportunity to stand alongside their heroes on the grid in the build-up to the race start.

“For the wider FIA, this is an excellent initiative that provides additional support to our member ASNs in their efforts to grow motorsport worldwide through a unique reward they can make available to youngsters participating in their national series.”

Sean Bratches, F1 Managing Director of Commercial Operations said: “This will be an extraordinary moment for these youngsters: imagine, standing beside their heroes, watch as they prepare to race, the elite of the elite in motorsport, to be there, alongside them in those precious few minutes just before the start.

“What an unforgettable experience, for them, and their families.

“An inspiration to keep driving, training and learning so that they can dream of one day being there themselves. What better way to inspire the next generation of Formula 1 heroes.”

Photo Credit: Sahara Force India Formula One Team