Behind the Podium with Linda Boudabous at the Baku GP

From the iconic streets of Monaco to the global stage of Formula 1,Linda Boudabous has crafted a career defined by precision, passion, and purpose. As the FIA’s Master of Ceremonies, she plays a key role in shaping some of motorsport’s most memorable moments bringing energy, elegance, and emotion to every podium celebration. With a foundation built at the Automobile Club de Monaco, Linda combines exceptional event expertise with an authentic racing spirit, embodying the sophistication and excitement that define Formula 1.While in Baku for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, we caught up with Linda Boudabous to talk about her role behind the scenes of Formula 1’s biggest moments, the precision required to manage podium ceremonies, and the passion that fuels her journey through the world of motorsport. —How did you get involved in the Formula One World Championship? I was born and raised in Monaco, and my first job was with the Automobile Club de Monaco. That’s how my journey in Formula 1 began I was already part of the Club, working on major events such as Formula 1, Formula E, and the Rally Monte-Carlo, which we host in Monaco. After gaining valuable experience there, I applied for a position at the FIA and was fortunate to be selected for my current role. —As the Master of Ceremonies for Formula One’s global high-profile events, how do you prepare yourself both mentally and professionally before stepping on stage at a Grand Prix? Honestly, it’s not a job that stresses me out. I’m naturally a very social person, and I feel quite comfortable around people. It’s not so much about feeling pressure, but of course, managing official protocols makes a big difference. I think I was very fortunate to have a great foundation the Automobile Club de Monaco is deeply rooted in protocol, especially with the presence of the Prince’s authority, so I learned a lot there. Later, I served as Head of Protocol at Expo 2020 in Dubai, which gave me even more valuable experience. Being around high-profile individuals has become something I’m used to, and I believe that background has prepared me well for the position I hold today. There isn’t really a specific kind of training for what I do it’s more about adapting to different environments. Each country has its own customs and protocol, so flexibility is key. I’m Arabic as well, so working in Arabic countries is quite easy for me because I understand how things work culturally. But in other places, like Japan or Mexico, it can be quite different though I still find it easy to adapt. Honestly, I don’t need to prepare too much: it just comes naturally. —You’ve had the opportunity to interact with drivers, teams, and fans from all over the world. What has been one of your most memorable or inspiring moments on the Formula 1 circuit? Every country has its own unique spirit. Each Grand Prix we travel to has a different atmosphere, and the fans bring their own local energy to the event. For example, in Japan, the fans are incredibly polite and respectful they don’t make much noise and tend to be quite reserved. Many of them even stay in the grandstands to watch the race replay right after it finishes, which creates such a special and distinctive vibe. It really surprised me at first, because it’s so different from what I was used to seeing elsewhere. For the drivers and teams, though, the experience is generally quite similar from one country to another, since their focus and routines remain the same regardless of where we are. —What can you tell us about the Baku Grand Prix and the fans there? Most of the fans are very passionate and emotional. Baku reminds me of Monaco, as it is also a city race, and I personally love city races. They really capture the culture and energy of the host city. The circuit is integrated into the heart of the city, which makes it truly special, and that’s why I enjoy the Baku Grand Prix so much it’s an amazing experience. Interview by: Aynur Mehdiyeva