In motorsport, where speed, precision, and engineering excellence define success, James Dornor is leading a different kind of race, one toward diversity, inclusion, and equitable opportunities. With over a decade of experience in Formula 1 and high-performance automotive engineering, James Dornor has not only left his mark on the technical side of racing but has also become a pioneering advocate for underrepresented communities in motorsport.
James’ journey, shaped by resilience, determination, and a passion for change, underscores the power of diversity in driving innovation. Through his groundbreaking work and commitment to inclusivity, James Dornor is ensuring that the future of racing is one where talent and opportunity know no boundaries.
A Journey of Resilience and Excellence
Born in 1988 in Harrow, North West London, to Ghanaian parents, James Dornor’s early life was marked by challenges. He was born prematurely at just 24 weeks and spent his first months in neonatal intensive care. At the age of six, he faced another hardship, the loss of his father. Growing up in a single-parent household, he witnessed his mother’s relentless efforts to provide for the family, often taking on multiple jobs.
Despite these difficulties, James Dornor developed a strong sense of resilience and perseverance. He took on responsibilities at an early age, helping his family navigate financial struggles while staying committed to his education. These formative experiences instilled in him the belief that success requires both determination and the willingness to uplift others.
His passion for engineering led him to an industrial placement at BMW Mini Oxford in 2009, where he worked as a reliability engineer. This role marked the beginning of a remarkable career in the automotive and motorsport industry.
Rising Through the Ranks in Motorsport
James’s breakthrough came in 2010 when he joined McLare Automotive through a work experience program. His dedication and technical skills quickly earned him a permanent role, setting the foundation for a career defined by excellence.
During his time at McLaren Automotive and McLaren GT, he played a crucial role in the development of some of the brand’s most iconic models, including the McLaren 12C, 650S, and P1. His work as a Customer Support Engineer and Lead Development Engineer for GT3, 12C GT Sprint Car & GT4 (now GT4 Artura) racing cars respectively showcased his technical expertise and leadership abilities.
In 2017, he transitioned to Formula 1, joining the Haas F1 Team as a Trackside Electronics Engineer. A year later, he returned to McLaren Racing as a Systems Support Engineer, where he worked on trackside systems development and contributed to the testing programs of rising stars like Lando Norris.
His journey continued in 2020 when he joined the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team as an Electronics Support Engineer in the Heritage division. There, he managed both on-car and off-car electronics systems for legendary drivers such as Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and Nico Rosberg, further cementing his reputation as an expert in motorsport engineering.
Driven By Us: A Movement for Change
While James Dornor’s technical contributions to motorsport are remarkable, it is his commitment to fostering inclusivity that truly defines his legacy. In April 2023, he founded Driven By Us, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals from ethnic minorities and underrepresented backgrounds in motorsport and the automotive industry.
DBU provides mentorship, STEM & Media programmes, including industry networking opportunities, ensuring that aspiring engineers and professionals have access to role models and pathways into the sport. Under Dornor’s leadership, DBU achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first ethnically-led organization recognized as a club by Motorsport UK to gain this status between April 2023 and November 2024, in 2025 they’re are fully focused community and organisation delivering and making a huge impact off and on track!.
His efforts have already made a tangible impact. Through DBU’s programmes, several women of color have secured engineering roles within Formula 1, breaking barriers and proving that talent transcends race and gender.
In 2023, James Dornor was honoured with the Points of Light Award by then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak MP, recognizing his outstanding contributions to community development and inclusion in motorsport in a short space of time presented before the British GP at Silverstone.
Beyond the Track: A Vision for the Future
Today, James Dornor continues his work as a Principal Systems Engineer at Leonardo, a global security company specializing in advanced surveillance radar technology. His expertise in integrating hardware and software systems plays a crucial role in critical operations such as search and rescue missions.
Beyond his engineering role, he remains a dedicated STEM ambassador, mentoring university students and delivering talks to inspire the next generation of innovators. His advocacy extends beyond motorsport, emphasizing the importance of representation, mentorship, and equitable opportunities in all technical fields.
The Road Ahead
James Dornor’s vision for a more inclusive motorsport industry is not just about breaking barriers, it’s about building a sustainable pipeline of diverse talent. Through Driven By Us, he is determined to position the organization as the leading advocate for equitable access to motorsport careers.
As he has often stated:
“Inclusion isn’t just a moral obligation, it’s essential for innovation and success. Everyone deserves the chance to thrive, regardless of their background.”
With his expertise, passion, and relentless drive, James Dornor is proving that true change in motorsport is not just about speed on the track but about ensuring that every aspiring engineer, driver, and professional has the opportunity to chase their dreams. His work is shaping a future where motorsport is as diverse as the talent that powers it.
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