S1, EP3 - Prof Tony Purnell - F1, British Cycling, PI Research and much more

The Neil Ashton Podcast

Professor Tony Purnell discusses his journey from a passion for motor racing and engineering in his youth to founding and leading Pi Research, a company specializing in race car electronics. He shares his experiences at university, including a Kennedy Scholarship to MIT, and his early career in the motor racing industry. Tony also explains how Pi Research expanded into the automotive industry and eventually caught the attention of Ford, leading to the company's acquisition. His story highlights the importance of passion, perseverance, and seizing opportunities in pursuing a successful career. Tony shares his experiences in the world of Formula One, from Ford's interest in buying the team to his role in restructuring the Aero department at Jaguar. He discusses the challenges he faced and the politics and dishonesty he encountered in the industry. Tony also reflects on the stress and burnout he experienced and the difficulties he had working with Red Bull.
He highlights the contrasting views of Max Mosley and Bernie Ecclestone on the future of Formula One and the changes that occurred under Liberty Media's ownership. In this conversation, Tony discusses his experiences in Formula One and British Cycling. He talks about the challenges of managing Formula One and the difficulties faced by organizations like Toyota in adapting to the sport. He also shares his reasons for leaving the FIA, including the Max Mosley sex scandal. He highlights the innovations he contributed to Formula One, such as the introduction of adjustable ride height and the DRS system. He discusses the politics and paranoia in Formula One and the importance of working with manufacturers. He then transitions to his role in British Cycling, where he emphasizes the impact of engineering on the sport. Tony expresses his concerns about the increasing technicality of cycling and the need to balance technology with talent. He concludes by offering advice for aspiring engineers, emphasizing the importance of following dreams. Enjoy!