meet Maximilian Günther, Formula E driver and ifaw ambassador

Maximilian Günther, Formula E driver for Nissan e.dams, joins IFAW as our latest global ambassador. The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship actively promotes electric mobility and renewable energy solutions to contribute to reducing air pollution and fighting against climate change around the world.

Why did you make the choice to drive for Formula E?

Formula E offers a perfect platform for environmental protection like no other racing series. Formula E is currently the most modern racing series. Both the teams and the drivers are among the strongest in all of motorsport and the series, like Formula 1, has the status of an FIA World Championship. It was clear to me that I wanted to make my way into Formula E, it's a privilege to drive here. Both cars are very fast, while Formula E is perfectly designed for tight street circuits in the big metropolises. Driving a Formula E car is probably the most complicated thing you can do as a racing driver at the moment. All the new technologies offer great scope for development and influence of the driver. That's great fun for me, I'm a perfectionist through and through.

What sparked your love for animals?

I grew up in the Allgäu, which of course shaped me a lot. I am very close to nature and always train a lot in nature. I'm a big animal lover. I grew up with a shepherd dog. That was something very special for me, from the age of 5 to 15 she was my best friend.

Why is animal and nature conservation important to you?

Animal and nature conservation is particularly close to my heart. I see it as our task to counteract climate change and protect the environment. As a Formula E driver, in a sport that is clearly about sustainable, renewable technologies, I see an ideal platform to make people aware of the importance of nature conservation.

Why do you support IFAW? 

I appreciate and support IFAW because I am very impressed by their passionate work in this area. To do my part fills me with a lot of pride. There are many projects that make my heart beat faster. Especially the species protection of elephants, lions, polar bears or gorillas is very close to my heart.

What is your favorite animal?

My favorite animal is the lion. I think it's an incredibly beautiful, powerful animal with a very special charisma. Even as a child, I always watched the Lion King. This enthusiasm has remained with me to this day.

In your opinion, what is the biggest conservation problem we face?

The biggest problem is the human being. Globalization and commercialization in so many areas are putting a massive strain on nature. It is shocking how ruthlessly nature is treated in so many areas. Quite apart from the terrible suffering that many animals have to experience because man tries to de-use them as trophies or means of profit.

What do you think is the most important thing we need to do to make the planet a better place for animals and people?

 Each and every one of us must take responsibility and do our personal part to live a sustainable, environmentally conscious life. I hope that the economy can also become a model for us here.

What advice would you give to young people to help them pursue their childhood dream?

I think the most important thing is to always follow your dreams, to do with dedication what you are convinced of, what gives you the most pleasure. In my case, it was motorsport. Since I was 6 years old, it has been my dream to become a professional racing driver. It was an incredibly intense way to come here and achieve my goals, but the fulfillment of this path was all the greater. I am very grateful to live my dream every day and can only ask everyone to realize their visions.