HOT WHEELS LAUNCHES COMPETITION TO FIND 'TINIEST TEAM PRINCIPAL'

Hot Wheels is launching a new competition to find its "Tiniest Team Principal," giving young Formula 1 fans a chance to become an ambassador for the brand. The competition is open to children aged five to ten in the United States, United Kingdom, and Mexico. Winners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to their home country's Grand Prix in 2026, granting them behind-the-scenes access to F1 and Hot Wheels operations.

Crucially for American fans, the prize also includes a trip to Hot Wheels headquarters in California to collaborate with designers on their own one-of-a-kind F1 car. A panel including F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and 2009 F1 champion Jenson Button will judge video submissions. Mattel seeks children who "build, rebuild and take on every challenge," with "strong opinions on what makes a car faster, cooler and more fun." This initiative aims to deepen the connection between young American enthusiasts and the sport, potentially sparking the next generation of F1 innovators right here.