Oxford University Racing - Where theory meets tarmac

Each year, Oxford University Racing (OUR) transforms lecture-hall learning into pit-lane practice. As the University of Oxford's Formula Student team, OUR brings together ambitious undergraduates and postgraduates to design, build, and race a fully electric single-seater car, and in the process, accelerates them into world-class engineering careers.

OUR is a unique opportunity for students to apply the principles taught in Oxford’s rigorous Engineering Science degree to real-world engineering challenges. From aerodynamics and powertrain systems to budgeting and sponsorship acquisition, students take on full responsibility for a cutting-edge technical project. The team functions like a start-up within the university, where students hold roles ranging from chief engineer to logistics coordinator.

The experience goes far beyond engineering for Tom Ancill, Team Principal for the 2024–25 season. “OUR helped me realise my potential and taught me invaluable skills in logistics, public speaking, public speaking, people management, and timeline organisation.’’ Tom’s OUR journey has led him to a coveted graduate role in Programme Management at Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains, a testament to the calibre of talent fostered within the team. ‘‘I look forward to my journey in Formula 1 and am thankful to OUR for their support and opportunity for growth.’’ He added.

OUR is not just an academic exercise, it’s a launchpad for engineering careers. One of the key benefits of the program is the opportunity it creates for industrial placements at top-tier companies.

Yansheng Zhou secured a placement with the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team, where he worked on simulation models used in elite motorsport engineering. He said: ‘‘OUR has also helped me gain valuable experience working in the field of motorsports, and put the theories learnt in the degree to use making good engineering decisions. These experiences allowed me to be confident in my work during my placement.’’ 

Lewis Blake landed a 13-month Powertrain Design Internship with Alpine F1. “Oxford University Racing was instrumental in preparing me for the practical side of achieving my dream job in Formula One,” says Lewis. “It built my confidence, developed my skills in vehicle dynamics and design, and gave me the platform to believe I could thrive in the industry. My confidence as an engineer has never grown so rapidly - which is why I would recommend industry experience to any Oxford engineer.” Lewis looks forward to continuing his work with Alpine with his Masters project next year, pairing his degree with F1 innovation.  

Behind every race car is a team of innovators, and OUR’s strength lies in the collaborative environment it fosters. Codrutza Draga, who worked on the team throughout her entire degree, rose from Software & Electronics member to Electrical Technical Manager. “My favourite part was attending the Formula Student competition - it was extremely fun and an amazing learning opportunity. The experience I had at OUR was extremely valuable both in terms of the knowledge I gained- a surprising amount of which is actually applicable in my day to day job- and also in terms of the teamwork skills and necessary adaptability one naturally picks up during the chaos of building an electric race car. I found that having an experience which showcases technical skill, teamwork, and dedication was extremely useful when applying to jobs, and thoroughly recommend OUR to engineering students who are looking to expand their hands-on skills!” she recalls.

Similarly, Ellis Capp, now a DPhil researcher in soft robotics at the Oxford Robotics Institute, credits his four years with OUR for his technical and leadership growth. “During my time on the team I learned all sorts of practical skills that have gone on to benefit me in my DPhil journey, from technical ones like designing circuit boards and mechanical components to soft skills like how to be self-driven and lead a team.”

Isabelle Blackburn also found early success through OUR. “I joined OUR3’s battery team as a first-year engineer after finding out about Formula Student at university open days. I knew it would be a fun way to apply the more theoretical parts of my degree and to gain plenty of practical experience. For OUR4 I became the Chief of Battery, where my confidence and practical skills have continued to develop by designing a brand-new battery and becoming an Electrical Safety Officer. OUR has enhanced my university experience hugely and I am so thankful for the opportunity to get to work with so many passionate and knowledgeable team members.”  

Jack Bruford exemplifies how OUR can shape a long-term academic and professional journey. He has been a member of OUR since its inception in 2017, when he was a first-year undergraduate. Jack’s Master’s project, developing the battery pack for an electric race car, supervised by Professor Dan Rogers, earned the award for Best Electrical Engineering 4th Year Project. This project laid the foundation for his DPhil research in cryogenic power electronics, all while remaining a dedicated member of the team. “Formula Student gave me hands-on experience in design, project management and leadership. It’s been a direct springboard to career opportunities. Employers really value the practical skills and innovation experience that OUR provides.” he says.

For students like Isabelle, OUR offers not just technical education but a supportive network of peers and mentors. Faculty Advisor Professor Ryan Walker plays a crucial role in this development. “Professor Walker gives up countless hours to support us,” says Tom Ancill. “His guidance is fundamental to OUR’s continued success.” 

The Formula Student competition is more than a race - it’s a holistic engineering challenge. Teams are judged not only on the performance of their vehicles, but also on their business acumen, design documentation, and presentation. Students must manage strict deadlines, navigate unexpected setbacks, and collaborate across disciplines to succeed. 

Josh Metge, an OUR alumnus, describes the competition as “an unrivalled way to get real, hands-on motorsport experience alongside your degree. OUR was the perfect platform, incredibly enjoyable and crucial to getting the job I have today.”

The competition environment is as fast-paced as the racetrack. Students engage with industry experts, fellow competitors, and potential employers. “We learned so much from sponsors, scrutineers, and other teams,” says Codrutza. “The atmosphere before the races, everyone working together in a buzzing environment was unforgettable.”

OUR is about more than engineering excellence - it’s about community, passion, and growth. Whether developing a new battery design, simulating lap times, or managing sponsorship pitches, students gain a rounded skillset that prepares them for any professional setting.

Alumni like Josh, Codrutza, and Ellis have gone on to thrive in their careers, backed by the experience, confidence, and technical mastery they developed with OUR. From Formula One to robotics research and software engineering, the impact of Oxford University Racing is undeniable.

As the team continues to grow in size, scope, and ambition, it remains a shining example of what’s possible when academic rigor meets real-world application. For any Oxford engineering student looking to shift gears and make a mark - OUR is the perfect place to start.

This year’s OUR race has been scheduled for 16-21 July.