The Race Weekend Essentials series interviews drivers, former drivers, well-known names in the media, and other racing professionals on what they can’t live without for race weekend. These interviews bring out fun facts racing fans may not have known before, as well as product recommendations and trends. The goal of this series is to provide a unique behind-the-scenes look at the lifestyle of our favorite racing names while also introducing and educating fans on popular products. Jack Aitken, Helio Castroneves, and Alexander Rossi are just a few of many drivers featured in this series. Podium Life has also interviewed Zandara Kennedy, Lucas Blakeley, James Hinchcliffe, and many other professionals in racing. See a list of all interviews on this page and use it as a resource if you need any gift ideas or product recommendations.

For Josef Newgarden, many Apple products are on his race car driver essentials list. This include his iPhone, AirPods, and iPad Pro. Also on his list is a coffee machine for his bus, foam roller, and other exercise equipment. Oakley sunglasses is an accessory on his essentials list for walking around the track and pitlane. Trolli Worms, Fruity Pebbles, Twix bars, and candy are all on his snack list for race weekends. Other obvious items that belong on a driver’s essentials list include a helmet, spare visor, race suit, racing gloves, neck brace, and racing shoes. For safety, a neck brace, first-aid kit, and harness system should also be on the list. And for the car itself, tools, spare parts, and an in-car communication system are all needed items.

If you’re a motorsports fan attending a race, your race day essentials list might include ear protection, tickets, money, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and maybe even a schedule or map of the track. Other lists of racing essentials might include snacks, water, chairs or seating cushions, and race memorabilia. For a racing weekend essentials list where fans are staying at or by the track, some might consider camping gear or hotel accommodations. Each list can be different depending on the fan, timing, and the race.