Pit Babes (Grid Girls)

Grid Girls (or Pit Babes, Umbrella Girls, Paddock Girls) are promotional models traditionally employed at motorsport events to represent sponsors, assist with pre-race logistics, and add a touch of glamour to the grid. Their roles often included holding umbrellas to shield drivers from sun or rain, displaying driver numbers, and posing for media and fan engagement. They were especially prominent in Formula 1, MotoGP, BTCC, and other high-profile racing series.

Over time, the role evolved from purely aesthetic appeal to one requiring professionalism, brand knowledge, and public interaction. Modern Grid Girls are expected to be articulate, confident, and capable of promoting products, distributing merchandise, and engaging with fans — often wearing branded outfits tailored to sponsor requirements. While some events have phased out the practice due to changing cultural attitudes, others still embrace it with a more professional and inclusive approach.