Manuel Krusy

In the thrilling world of motorsport, where speed and precision reign supreme, I found my calling as a radio engineer. My career took me to prestigious events like the DTM (German Touring Cars Masters) and the Formula 1, where I played a crucial role in maintaining communication between drivers, pit stop crews, and racing engineers. Here, I share my personal experiences and insights from my time as a motorsport radio engineer.

My role as a radio engineer involved ensuring seamless communication within the fast-paced environment of motorsport. Whether it was at the DTM or Formula 1, I was responsible for maintaining stable communication channels between drivers and their teams. I was also the go-to person whenever technical issues arose, which demanded quick thinking and problem-solving skills.

My journey into the world of motorsport was inspired by my passion for audio equipment and the fond memories of watching Formula 1 races with my grandfather. This deep-rooted love led me to pursue a career in radio engineering for motorsport events, allowing me to blend my technical skills with my enthusiasm for the sport.

In motorsport, technology is not confined to the track; it extends to the communication systems that keep teams connected. I had the privilege of working with cutting-edge radio and intercom equipment, including a system that integrated both technologies into a single, stable communication platform. One notable achievement was the development of an interface connection for radio and intercom systems, streamlining communication for the teams.

The world of motorsport brought its fair share of challenges. One standout memory was when we introduced a new radio system without any blueprints for an intercom interface. Determined and armed with technical expertise, I crafted the interface from scratch, showcasing my adaptability and problem-solving abilities. My technical skills even extended beyond motorsport, as I played a role in transmitting camera telemetry data for Felix Baumgartner's historic stratosphere jump.

One of the pinnacle moments of my career was my role as a radio engineer for the Hispania Racing Team during the Formula 1 season finale in Abu Dhabi in 2010. However, this opportunity was not without its challenges. I stepped in as a replacement for an injured colleague, taking on new responsibilities and forming a closer connection with the racing team.

While the world of motorsport offered excitement and technical challenges, I eventually realized that my true passion lay in audio engineering and design. The desire to express my creativity in a more unrestricted manner led me to make the transition.

A crucial lesson I learned from my time in motorsport was the paramount importance of precision and attention to detail. In this high-pressure environment, a single mistake in managing the driver's radio equipment could have significant consequences, impacting race strategies and outcomes. This commitment to precision has carried forward into my current career in design.

During my tenure as a radio engineer, the motorsport industry underwent a significant technological shift, moving from analog to hybrid and fully digital systems. This transition required me to adapt and acquire new skills, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of the field.

Interestingly, my perspective on motorsport changed after leaving the industry. Watching motorsport events no longer held the same excitement as when I was actively involved. However, I still cherish a small racing car model as a memento from my time working with my favorite driver in the DTM.

In conclusion, my journey as a radio engineer in the motorsport world reflects the passion, technical expertise, and adaptability required in this dynamic field. These experiences have not only provided me with valuable insights into motorsport communication but have also guided me toward a creatively fulfilling career in design.