Leilani Dowding Advocates for Return of Grid Girls in Formula 1

English model and former Formula 1 grid girl Leilani Dowding supports bringing models back to the F1 racetrack. These models were removed before the 2018 season, a decision she never understood. The move was made to align with new brand values, but Dowding disagreed then and continues to disagree now.

She was in Los Angeles when she heard about the removal and found out through newspapers. In a recent interview with GrandPrix247, she expressed her disbelief at the decision. “I thought it was crazy. I remember thinking, ‘what is going on?’ It was always really welcoming,” she said. She believes those critical of the grid girls had no real understanding or experience of their role.

The only people who would say stupid things, such as that we were being objectified, were people who weren’t involved and had never spoken to us. They were looking in from the outside.

Dowding believes the current entertainment-focused F1 events, like the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, would be the perfect setting for the return of grid girls. She imagines actress Sydney Sweeney leading the initiative. Sweeney recently waved the checkered flag at the NASCAR Cup Series Championship, showing her potential in this role.

“Sydney Sweeney would make a fantastic grid girl. I’d love to see her doing it for the Las Vegas GP; she’d be one of my favorites. She should get her boots on and get on that grid,” Dowding stated. She believes Sweeney would stir emotions, making many people react strongly.

Dowding doesn’t just want grid girls back. She envisions enhancing the current celebrity and entertainment aspects of F1. Her plan is aggressive: amplify entertainment while challenging preconceived notions. Sydney Sweeney, based on her recent appearances, seems suited for this challenge.

While it’s unlikely we’ll see Sweeney leading grid girls at the Las Vegas event immediately, Dowding’s proposal lays out a clear vision for a more entertaining F1 experience. The idea awaits implementation by someone willing to execute it.