Matt Bishop

Matt Bishop is a renowned journalist, novelist, and leading communications and strategy consultant in motorsport, specialising in Formula 1. He has held senior positions at top teams such as McLaren Racing and Aston Martin F1. As the founding ambassador of Racing Pride, established in cooperation with Stonewall in 2019, Matt champions LGBTQ+ inclusivity within the motorsport industry. As a speaker, he shares deep insights into F1 and addresses critical topics like diversity, inclusion, and environmental issues.

Matt's career began in diverse roles including bookmaker, betting-shop manager, and minicab driver. He transitioned into journalism as a freelance writer for Sporting Life before enrolling in Psychology at City, University of London, which he left to pursue writing full-time. He quickly rose through the ranks at Car magazine, becoming Features Editor, and later at Focus magazine as Deputy Editor and Acting Editor. In 1996, he joined F1 Racing magazine, where he played a pivotal role in its success, selling over 1.25 million copies monthly, and served as the Editorial Director of Haymarket Motorsport Publications.

During a critical period, Matt was invited by McLaren Chairman Ron Dennis to join McLaren Formula 1 as Communications Director. He significantly enhanced the team’s media profile and public image, working closely with legendary drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, and Fernando Alonso. In 2018, he joined the W Series as Communications Director, leading the global launch of the all-female racing championship. Later, he moved to Aston Martin F1 as Chief Communications Officer, where he collaborated with Sebastian Vettel on innovative media initiatives to promote diversity, inclusion, and environmental awareness.

An accomplished author, Matt co-wrote Emerson Fittipaldi’s autobiography ‘Emmo: a Racer’s Soul’ and published his own novel, ‘The Boy Made The Difference’, which explores LGBTQ+ themes. His pioneering contributions have redefined the operations of Formula 1 media departments, particularly through digital and social media innovations during his tenure with McLaren and Aston Martin. 

Matt is highly sought-after for speaking engagements, known for his outspoken advocacy on LGBTQ+ issues and his call for greater diversity and inclusion in motorsports. His extensive knowledge of Formula 1 and his engaging storytelling make him a compelling speaker on topics that are not only vital to the sport but also resonate with broader societal challenges.