My Team is one of F1 2020’s most exciting new features, letting you manage your very own team. We (Red Bull Gaming) have been chatting to Codemasters to find out how to master it.
The real Formula One season finally started after a long break. Drivers have been competing hard in recent races. But for many, the F1 2020 game from Codemasters has been a great way to stay involved and practice driving skills during the downtime.
This new game isn’t just about racing. One of the most interesting parts is the “My Team” mode. Here, you get to run your own F1 team. You’ll handle everything from picking and training new drivers to managing sponsorships and engine deals.
If managing a whole team sounds tough, don’t worry! We got some helpful advice straight from Codemasters. Lee Mather, the game director for F1 2020, answered our questions. Keep reading to learn how to reach the top in F1 2020’s My Team mode.
Starting Strong: What to Think About First in My Team?
Lee Mather says there are several important things to consider when you begin your My Team journey.
“For me, how the team looks is very important. So, take some time to choose a great design and identity for your team,” he suggests. “I also think naming your team will be something many players find surprisingly difficult.”
“The next big decision is your main sponsor and the goal they set for the season. The money you start with will determine which real engine supplier you can choose and which F2 teammate you can afford.”
Engine Choices: Power or Savings?
When asked about picking an engine, Lee Mather explained that there isn’t one single best way to go.
“There are so many ways to improve in F1 2020 that it’s hard to say what the best plan is. It really depends on what’s most important to you,” he said. “You could focus only on having the best car to win the drivers’ title. But then you’d have to ignore your teammate and the chance to win the constructors’ title. Plus, you won’t win either if you don’t invest in making your car better. A teammate who isn’t doing well also won’t help improve your team in many areas.”
The Most Important Thing for Success
“I’m sure all the real F1 teams would love to just put all their resources into one area and start winning,” Lee Mather commented. “But just like in the real sport, it’s about the whole team working together. You have to remember that all the other teams will also be improving. So, it’s important to build a well-rounded team.”
He also pointed out an interesting detail: “The balance of your car is affected by how you answer the interview questions at the start of My Team. Because of this, you can make up for some weak areas by answering positively. Or, you can focus on certain areas and then improve them through Research and Development.”
Tips for Progressing in the Game
“It’s all about finding the right balance,” Lee Mather advised. “But something I haven’t mentioned is money. Staying financially stable is key to keeping and improving your team. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spend money, because investing is necessary. But remember that at some point, you’ll need to negotiate to keep your teammate or hire a new one in the driver market.”
Bringing Up New Talent: F2 Drivers in F1
When asked about signing F2 drivers, Lee Mather confirmed it’s possible to see them succeed in F1.
“All the F2 drivers will get better over time. You can make this happen faster by how you invest in them. Taking an F2 driver to the top takes time, but it can be done if you focus on it. Of course, other teams might also be working on their F2 drivers. You also need to consider that some of the long-time F1 drivers will retire during your career. This could lead to more F2 drivers competing in later seasons.”
How Drivers Affect Sponsorship
“The main way your teammate affects sponsorship is through the level of Acclaim they bring to the team,” Lee Mather explained. “All team income, both fixed and bonus payments, are based on how much Acclaim your driver and team have. A driver who performs well will gain more Acclaim and bring more money to your team.”
“It’s also important to improve your Sponsor Relations in the marketing department. This will help you build Acclaim faster, which ultimately increases your sponsor income. When you start My Team, you’ll have one main sponsor spot. As you progress and earn team Acclaim, you’ll unlock more sponsor spots on your car.”
Hidden Tips from an Insider
“So far, we’ve talked a lot about My Team, which is a big new addition to the series in recent years,” Lee Mather said. “But F1 2020 has more to offer this year. We’ve also added new accessibility features as part of the Casual Race option. These are really important for allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy F1 2020. If you love F1 but find the on-track action challenging, then F1 2020 really opens things up for you.”