“The biggest thing is trust. If he tells me the car’s right, the car’s right.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight chat with Max Coates, a British racing driver who has carved out a successful career across various motorsport series, from his early days on two wheels to becoming a racing team manager. Max shares his early start in karting, the transition to car racing, and the vital role family has played in his journey - especially with his dad as his lead mechanic. Max also delves into the realities of sponsorships, how simulators are shaping the next generation of racers, and the importance of self-analysis for improving performance on and off the track.

Whether you’re an aspiring racer or simply passionate about motorsport, Max’s journey is a testament to hard work, determination, and a deep love for the sport.

Key Moments:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Christian and Becca’s quirky car picks

[00:05:24] Guest Intro: Welcoming Max Coates

[00:06:19] Starting Young: From motorbikes to karting

[00:08:46] Making the Leap: Transitioning from karting to car racing

[00:12:37] Sponsorships: How to attract and maintain support

[00:14:08] Family in Racing: The unique dynamic of working with his dad

[00:20:17] Behind the Wheel: The highs and challenges of professional racing

[00:23:36] Self-Analysis: Max’s advice on becoming a better driver

[00:29:57] The Future of Motorsport: Media and the importance of visibility

Featuring: Max Coates

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

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Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd.