Sustainable Aviation Fuel deal with Qatar Airways moves F1 closer to Net Zero plans

Formula 1 has taken another step on its path to reach its 2030 Net Zero commitments after announcing further investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel alongside Qatar Airways.

With Qatar Airways launching its own Sustainable Aviation Fiel (SAF) programme, F1 has joined up as the inaugural member, strengthening the relationship with one of its global partners.

The news follows on from an investment with F1’s global logistics partner DHL announced at this year’s Singapore Grand Prix as the series continues its move towards its sustainability goals.

“Today’s investment is the next step in our alternative fuels strategy which is central to delivering our Net Zero 2030 target,” said Ellen Jones, head of environment, social and governance at F1.

“Through collaboration with our Teams, the FIA and our partners, we are delivering on our promises to drive down the sports’ carbon emissions and drive forward technologies that can have an impact beyond Formula 1.

“This is the latest example of how stakeholders across the sport are aligned with our vision for a more sustainable F1, which we are thrilled to see.”

Circuit detail and Qatar Airways trackside branding

Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Motorsport Images

The initiatives with Qatar Airways and DHL are expected to bring a 19% reduction in related emissions when compared to traditional fuel used across the flyaway races during the 2024 season.

Switching to SAF is a key element of F1’s strategy in the goal to be Net Zero by 2030, while other areas have also been looked at in an effort to reduce emissions.

The most notable recent change has been to make steps to rationalise the calendar, with the Canadian Grand Prix moving to May and the Monaco Grand Prix switching to an early June slot to minimise freight transit across the Atlantic.

A change to alternative race fuels is also underway, with F1 on track to use 100% sustainable fuel from the 2026 season onward.

F2 and F3 will make the switch from next season having been at 55% since 2023, while the F1 paddock and pitlane at all European grands prix next season will be powered by a lower-carbon solution, expected to reduce emissions in those areas by over 90%.