Innovation Centre ideal base to manage motorsport’s emerging stars

/ 16 Sep 2021

Infinity Sports Management, which specialises in opportunities and contractual negotiations for racing drivers, is amongst the latest SMEs to locate to office space in Silverstone Park’s Innovation Centre.

Founded seven years ago by Harry Soden and former top international kart racer Gary Catt, the business’s first client was George Russell – recently confirmed as Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes team-mate in Formula 1 in 2022.

Harry recalled:

“Gary’s previous racing experience was telling him that three drivers were standing out in international karting at the time – Charles Leclerc, Max Verstappen and George Russell.

“George became our very first client and we helped see him rise up the motorsport ladder, including introducing him to Mercedes’ Toto Wolff.

“Whilst he is now a Mercedes-contracted driver and managed by Mercedes, we continue to work alongside them on his behalf.

Those who follow motorsport may well spot other star drivers – being guided in their careers by Infinity – occasionally appearing in the Innovation Centre’s reception and hallways, including:

  • Dan Ticktum (FIA F2 front-runner)
  • Charlie Eastwood (Aston Martin LMP2 driver)
  • Logan Sargeant (FIA Formula 3 & LMP2 driver in 2021)

Harry continued:

“Managing and mentoring young drivers making the transition from karting to cars has always been a speciality of ours – Infinity was founded because we spotted there was a gap in the market.”

“Protecting any investment our clients make so they see a return on that, as and when they become a career driver, is where we come in: spotting gaps in the market, surrounding a driver with the right team, their psychological and physical wellbeing, simulator preparation…

“Navigating your way through all the options – the different teams, formulae, people etc – can be a minefield. Our experience, reputation and contacts put us in a strong position when it comes to trust.

“For example, we’re in the F1 paddock – not many driver management agencies are.”

Harry’s and Gary’s diaries include business trips to top motorsport events almost every weekend – including 12 F1 grands prix a year – depending on their drivers’ sponsorship commitments or contractual negotiations.

Harry added:

“The Innovation Centre adds kudos and gives us identity, with a professional location to meet customers instead of doing deals in hotel foyers!

“The MEPC team couldn’t do more for us – it was the move we needed to make and now we’re getting into a position to expand with more people.”