Expert: Adam - 6/17/2007

Question
hi! i want to ask if a Muslim formula one driver went on to the podium what would they do as (if they follow there religious beliefs) they would not be able to celebrate with champagne or any alcohol?
i think this is the reason why there are not many Muslims involved in professional motor-sports.
the reason why i ask this question is that i am a Muslim myself and i hope to become a F1 driver.

Answer
Thanks for your question Ahmed.

No, not wanting to drink champagne on the podium is not a reason why there are not many Muslims involved in professional motorsports. Drinking champagne is not obligatory and in muslim countries, alcohol is not the drink used on podiums in any case. In other countries, there is no problem with a driver not drinking the alcohol on the podium, they could choose to hand it back or offer it to the non-muslim members of their team.

There are a number of muslims driving professionally, although at present not many. None have raced in F1 yet, though I think a few may have had some test drives. Good luck in your intended career.