Modern Formula 1 teams are vast organisations with hundreds of employees all working toward a single goal: being the best in the sport. But within these sprawling operations, there exist smaller, tightly-knit groups — the teams within the team — centred around helping each driver perform at their absolute maximum.

Formula1.com has been delving into what they call the "driver's bubble" — the small cadre of people whose lives revolve around supporting the stars of F1. After previously exploring how psychologists help drivers reach peak performance, the series now turns its attention to one of the most unique roles in the paddock: the reserve driver.

In the latest instalment, Stoffel Vandoorne — a former McLaren racer who now serves as Aston Martin's reserve driver — provides an inside look at what life is like in this often-overlooked position. The Belgian driver, who raced for McLaren between 2017 and 2018 before moving to Formula E where he became champion, offers a rare glimpse into the responsibilities, challenges, and mindset required of someone who must be ready to step into the cockpit at a moment's notice.

The reserve driver's role is one of constant preparation without the guarantee of ever racing. Vandoorne's insights shed light on the delicate balance between staying sharp enough to compete at the highest level and accepting that race seats may never materialise — all while remaining an integral part of the team's broader operation.

The feature is part of a broader Formula1.com series that has already examined the role of sports psychologists in F1 and is set to continue exploring the various figures who make up a driver's inner circle throughout the season.