The History and Politics of Motor Racing: Lives in the Fast Lane

This book explores the history and politics of motor racing, discussing its origins, relationships to nation-building, the automobile industry, gender, race, the media, postmodernity, and globalization. It is written by international scholars and motor racing specialists and is relevant to scholars in history, politics, sport studies, and cultural studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 771 pages
Publication date: 07 May 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive and meticulously researched book delves into the captivating world of motor racing, exploring its rich history, intricate politics, and profound impact on the global sport industry. Written by a team of esteemed international scholars and experts in motor racing, this authoritative text offers a comprehensive examination of the sport's origins, evolution, and profound connections to nation building, modernity, the automobile industry, gender, race, media, postmodernity, and spatial and globalization.

Spanning several chapters, the book delves into the historical roots of motor racing, tracing its early beginnings in Europe and the United States to its emergence as a major international spectacle. It explores the role of motor racing in shaping national identities, promoting technological advancements, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among enthusiasts. The authors also examine the complex relationship between motor racing and politics, highlighting its connections to fascism, dictatorship, and the power dynamics of various nations.

Furthermore, the book explores the intricate connections between motor racing and the automobile industry, examining how the sport has influenced the design, engineering, and marketing of cars. It sheds light on the economic implications of motor racing, including its contribution to job creation, tourism, and the global automotive market. The authors also examine the role of women in motor racing, highlighting the challenges and barriers they have faced throughout history and the ongoing efforts to promote gender equality in the sport.

In addition to its exploration of the historical and political aspects of motor racing, the book also delves into the sport's relationship with the media and postmodernity. It examines how motor racing has been portrayed in popular culture, including films, television series, and video games, and how it has adapted to the changing landscape of media consumption. The authors also explore the impact of technology on motor racing, including the use of advanced aerodynamics, telemetry, and simulation tools.

Finally, the book examines motor racing's spatial and globalization dimensions, exploring how the sport has transcended national boundaries and become a truly international phenomenon. It examines the role of international organizations such as the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) in regulating and promoting motor racing worldwide, as well as the impact of globalization on the sport's economics, regulations, and fan base.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars in history, politics, sport studies, the sociology of sport, sport management, and cultural studies. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on motor racing, offering insights into its historical, political, social, and economic dimensions. Moreover, the book's accessible and engaging writing style makes it accessible to a wide range of lay readers interested in the relationship between motor sport and society.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in motor racing, sports, or the broader field of cultural studies. It offers a wealth of information, insights, and perspectives that will deepen our understanding of this fascinating and dynamic sport and its profound impact on the world around us.

Weight: 1165g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031228247
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023