In the high-speed world of Formula 1 (F1), where precision and expertise are paramount, Ngo Viet Hung is one of the very few Vietnamese involved in race operations.

Hung recently shared his journey, the struggles of working in motorsport, and his hopes for F1’s coming to Vietnam while participating in a car-themed talk show aired last week.

Reflecting on the past year, Hung expressed pride in Vietnam’s growing motorsport landscape, particularly the rise of gymkhana and off-road racing championships.

"Motorsport in Vietnam is developing and gradually catching up with the region," he noted. 

"We now have a national gymkhana championship and an off-road racing competition that has paved the way for more events across the country."

However, his biggest regret remains Vietnam’s missed opportunity to host an F1 race, a dream that seemed within reach in 2020 but has since stalled.

The biggest hurdle, he explained, was the financial strain following the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted government and corporate sponsorships.

Besides, international challenges have complicated the process.

Hosting an F1 race requires extensive global connections, cooperation from government authorities, and backing from major businesses.

Despite these challenges, Hung remains hopeful, as his expertise, recognized by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and Motorsport Australia, previously known as the Confederation of Australia Motor Sport (CAMS), has led to new opportunities abroad.

Next month, Hung will be one of the few Vietnamese professionals involved in the F1 Australian Grand Prix in Australia.

He was trained by the FIA and CAMS between 2019 and 2020 to manage F1 circuits.

A former mentor and friend, now the director of the Australian Grand Prix, invited him to help operate the race. 

Hung also extended invitations to three other Vietnamese who were trained for the 2020 Vietnam Grand Prix to join him.

At the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, his team will be positioned right next to the track, witnessing F1 cars speed past at 320-350kph.

Hung clarified that all F1 race management personnel are volunteers, meaning they cover their own expenses to participate.

These volunteers do not work for commercial organizations, ensuring that race results remain fair and transparent.

The global F1 race operations community is massive, with 700-900 volunteers per race in Australia, including 200-300 international participants.

Hung elaborated that becoming part of F1 race management requires years of dedication and experience. 

With 17 years of experience in organizing and volunteering in motorsport, Hung’s persistence paid off when F1 arrived in Vietnam in 2020. 

His prior involvement led to FIA and CAMS training, making him part of an elite global network of race officials.

For beginners, he recommended starting with local racing events before joining larger volunteer groups. Progressing through these steps eventually leads to bigger opportunities.

While Vietnam lacks frequent F1 opportunities, those eager to participate can volunteer at races in Thailand, Singapore, or other neighboring countries to gain experience.

Many in Vietnam misunderstand motorsport, associating it with recklessness, illegality, and danger. 

Hung emphasized that true motorsport enthusiasts prioritize safety and responsible racing.

Earlier, Vietnam had limited on-road racing venues, so many enthusiasts turned to off-road racing. 

To ensure safety, racers sought designated empty lots with official permissions from local authorities.

Vietnam now has legal racing venues, including paid racing circuits in the southern region. 

Hung urged aspiring racers to join organized groups, learn from experienced mentors, and prioritize safety above all else.

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