Motorsport Music: Do F1 & NASCAR Drivers Listen to Music While Racing?

Ever wonder if the roar of an F1 engine or a NASCAR stock car is ever mixed with a favorite song? Most drivers say no. The focus needed to control a car at over 200 mph leaves little room for a soundtrack. In this guide we’ll break down why music is usually off‑limits, and when a driver might still hit play.

Why drivers usually skip music

First off, safety is the biggest reason. When you’re racing, you have to hear the radio from the pit crew, the squeal of tires, and the sounds of other cars. A song can drown out those cues and cause a split‑second mistake. Second, the mental load is huge. Drivers talk about being in a tunnel of concentration, where any extra stimulus feels like a distraction. Even a short lyric can pull attention away from braking points and turn‑in speeds.

Third, the car’s cockpit is already noisy. Engines, exhausts, and wind create a constant roar. Adding headphones or speakers would mean extra wiring, extra weight, and potential technical issues. Teams want the car as light and simple as possible, so they rarely approve extra gear for music.

Exceptions and personal playlists

That said, a few drivers have shared personal quirks. Some use a short music clip in the paddock to calm nerves before a session. Others might listen to a favorite track during a practice run when the stakes are lower. These cases are rare and usually happen in controlled environments, not during the actual race.

When a driver does listen, it’s often through a single earbud, keeping one ear free for radio communication. They pick songs that boost focus rather than relax – think fast‑beat rock or electronic beats that match the car’s rhythm. Even then, the driver must be ready to pull the plug instantly if the team needs to get a message through.

In short, the answer is mostly no. The intense concentration, safety needs, and technical setup keep music out of the race car. A few personal moments exist, but they’re the exception, not the rule. If you’re a fan, you’ll still hear the real soundtrack: the sound of engines, tires, and the crowd cheering as drivers push the limits.