Bernie Collins is making waves in the world of Formula One as one of the most influential figures in the sport today. Hailing from Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, Collins has transitioned from an accomplished design engineer to a respected television analyst with Sky Sports, showcasing her expertise in engineering, analytics, and race strategy.
Her journey began with a solid foundation in engineering, having worked with renowned teams such as McLaren and Force India/Aston Martin. During her tenure with Force India from 2015 to 2022, Collins played a pivotal role in the team’s success, contributing to their fourth-place finishes in the Constructors’ Championship in both 2016 and 2017. She was instrumental in Sergio Perez’s historic victory during the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix in Bahrain, marking a significant achievement for the team.
In 2023, she made a transition to F1 TV, where her analytical insights quickly caught the attention of Sky Sports. Her recently published book, “How To Win A Grand Prix: From Pitlane To Podium — The Inside Track,” has been praised as one of the most insightful and accessible explorations of Formula One, appealing to both enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
Collins emphasizes the expanding opportunities for Irish talent in Formula One, noting that the sport is no longer limited to drivers and race directors. She believes that the growing visibility of diverse roles within the industry, including engineering, marketing, and legal positions, is encouraging more individuals, particularly young women, to pursue careers in this field.
As she prepares for the iconic Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, Collins reflects on her journey and the rising Irish influence in the sport. Offaly driver Alex Dunne recently claimed his first pole position in Formula 2, raising hopes that an Irish driver may soon return to Formula One, bridging the gap since Eddie Irvine’s time on the grid.
Collins hopes her presence on television will inspire the next generation of engineers and professionals in the motorsport industry, changing perceptions and encouraging more young women to consider engineering as a viable and exciting career path. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that success is achievable, even in fields that may have previously seemed out of reach.
This narrative not only highlights Collins’ remarkable achievements but also reflects a promising shift in the motorsport landscape, offering hope for greater diversity and representation in Formula One.