Now, instead of sitting on the sidelines and rooting for their favourite drivers, viewers now have a chance to participate more actively at the upcoming Formula 1.

Tata Communications, the official connectivity provider for Formula 1, has unveiled the second challenge for the 2017 F1 Connectivity Innovation Prize.

The theme is simple: Come up with ideas that can enhance the track-side experience for fans at the Grand Prix racing tournament through Internet of Things (IoT), mobile technologies and embedded connectivity.

“We want to see how IoT solutions can enhance the F1 racing experience for the millions of fans who attend the Grands Prix all over the world – from before they even arrive at the track till the end of the race weekend,” said John Morrison, Chief Technical Officer of Formula 1 in a press statement.

He explained that through mobile phone apps, fans could tune into customised live video feeds, take part in live polls and synchronised cheering and interact with each other with ease.

Morrison added:

“…Fans’ emotions could also be tracked to make aggregated emotion charts on large displays at the circuit, creating a more interactive, immersive and thrilling race experience.”

The Grand Prize of the F1 Connectivity Innovation Prize is a cheque for $50,000. The judges pick three winners from each of the two challenges set by Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport and Formula 1. The six winners from both challenges will be awarded trips to the 2017 Formua 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where the jury will announce the winner.

In addition, one person from one of the three winning teams of this challenge will be given a special prize: they will get a chance to work alongside the technical team of Formula 1 at a Grand Prix of the winner’s choice for a unique behind-the-scenes experience.

A full brief for the second challenge can be downloaded from the F1 Connectivity Innovation Prize website.

The closing date for the challenge is 2 August 2017.