Parents of Formula 1-obsessed kids may want to start filming, as Mattel has officially launched a nationwide search for the UK’s very first Hot Wheels F1 “Tiniest Team Principal” — and the winning child will land an unforgettable motorsport experience.
The competition, created in partnership with Formula 1, is giving one lucky young racing fan the chance to head to Hot Wheels headquarters in California, design their own exclusive F1-inspired die-cast car, and attend the British Grand Prix with VIP access.
What Is the Hot Wheels F1 Tiniest Team Principal Competition?
The new initiative is aimed at children aged between five and ten who are passionate about racing, car design and Hot Wheels track-building. Mattel is looking for a young fan with creativity, confidence and plenty of opinions on what makes the perfect race car.
The winning child will become an official Hot Wheels ambassador and gain rare behind-the-scenes access to both Hot Wheels and Formula 1.
According to Mattel, entrants should be the kind of kids who “treat track building like engineering and play time like race day.”
What Does the Winner Receive?
The grand prize package includes:
- An all-expenses-paid family trip to California
- A visit to Hot Wheels headquarters
- The opportunity to collaborate with Hot Wheels designers
- A chance to create a one-of-a-kind Hot Wheels F1 car
- Early previews of unreleased Hot Wheels models
- Input into future Hot Wheels F1 liveries
- VIP access to the British Grand Prix
- Custom Team Hot Wheels race gear
- The complete Hot Wheels F1 die-cast collection and track sets
And perhaps most importantly for any budding motorsport executive — the winner will also receive a reserved parking space at Hot Wheels HQ labelled “Hot Wheels F1 Team Principal”.
Formula 1 Legends Join Judging Panel
The competition entries will be reviewed by a high-profile judging panel featuring major names from the racing world, including:
- Stefano Domenicali
- Jenson Button
- Ted Wu
- Kristina Albrecht
Speaking about the competition, Jenson Button said:
“In Formula 1, the difference between winning and losing can come down to one decision. Kids make those kinds of calls every time they play with Hot Wheels.”
Ted Wu added that Mattel is looking for a child who “builds, rebuilds, and takes on every challenge.”
How to Enter the Competition
Parents or legal guardians can enter by uploading a video submission via TikTok or Instagram before 16 June 2026.
Videos can showcase:
- Custom Hot Wheels builds
- Race predictions
- Original vehicle designs
- Creative ideas for running an F1 team
- Passionate explanations about racing strategy
Official winners will be announced on 23 June.
For full entry rules and eligibility requirements, visit the official Hot Wheels F1 competition page.
Hot Wheels and Formula 1 Continue Expanding Partnership
The competition marks another major step in the growing collaboration between Hot Wheels and Formula 1, as motorsport-inspired toys continue gaining popularity with younger audiences.
The brand’s F1 die-cast range has already become a favourite among collectors and young racing fans alike, blending real-world Formula 1 inspiration with classic Hot Wheels track play.
