What is STEM Racing?
The world's largest science and technology competition for secondary school students, inspired by Formula 1. Formerly known as F1 in Schools.
A miniature F1 team
Created in the United Kingdom in 1999 as F1 in Schools, the competition was renamed STEM Racing in 2024. It is endorsed by Formula 1 and now runs in more than 60 countries. In France, it is organised by STEM Racing France.
The idea: teams of 3 to 6 students work like a real racing team. They design and build a miniature single-seater according to strict technical regulations, then race it against other teams.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. But the competition rewards entrepreneurship, communication and teamwork just as much as pure speed.
20 metres, about one second
The car is launched by pressurised gas and speeds along a nylon guide wire to the finish line. The best cars cover the track in just over one second.
From screen to track
Every team follows the same cycle as a professional racing team.
Design
The car is drawn in CAD (computer-aided design), following the regulations to the millimetre: dimensions, weight, wings, wheels.
Simulation
Aerodynamics are analysed with computer simulation and a virtual wind tunnel to keep drag to a minimum.
Manufacturing
The body is machined with CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) from a regulation block of material, then assembled and painted.
Racing
Powered by a CO₂ cartridge, the car covers 20 metres head-to-head. Reaction time at the start counts too.
Much more than a race
The fastest car doesn't necessarily win. A jury of professionals assesses the team's whole project.
Before racing, every car goes through scrutineering: judges use gauges and measuring tools to check that it complies with every rule. Every deviation costs points.
Track performance
Race time over 20 metres, reaction time at the start and reliability of the car.
Engineering
Engineering portfolio and interview with the judges about design, simulation and manufacturing.
Enterprise
Portfolio covering project management, budget, sponsorship and marketing strategy.
Verbal presentation
About ten minutes to present the project, how the team is organised and each member's role.
Pit display and brand identity
The stand, logo, team outfits and the consistency of the team's brand.
From school to the World Finals
The competition is played in stages, with each country running its own selection.
The season
Months of work: building the team, finding partners, designing, manufacturing and testing the car.
The national final
French teams meet at the national final. The 2026 final was held at the Musée de l'Automobile in Mulhouse.
The World Finals
The best teams from each country compete at the World Finals against teams from all over the world.
What the competition gives us
Real-world skills
CAD, machining, aerodynamics, budgeting: skills used every day in industry.
Working with companies
Approaching partners, negotiating, reporting back: a first real professional experience.
Competitive spirit
Setting goals, meeting deadlines and competing against other passionate teams.
STEM Racing France
Rules, calendar, registration and news about the competition in France (in French).
Want to support us?
Company, school or individual: your support helps us go further in the competition.