Racing driver on a simulator showing hands on steering wheel

Setting Purple Sectors

Chris McCarthy in Young Epilepsy T-shirt — Watch the show and find out more about Setting Purple Sectors

Setting Purple Sectors was a unique charity event hosted by F1 Commentator, Chris McCarthy, in support of Young Epilepsy. This exciting event brought together some of the best drivers, sim-racers, and broadcasters from the world of motor racing. It took place on Tuesday 12 November, and was streamed live on Tiltify from Simply Race, Milton Keynes.

The event featured 15 teams, 15 rigs, and 15 famous team leaders who went all-out in a 2-hour endurance race. The live stream on Tiltify attracted a large audience, with each team battling it out to cross the finish line first. Viewers enjoyed interviews with famous drivers, YouTubers, and commentators, and had the chance to bid on signed T-shirts and other prizes.

Watch the show

A Purple Sector is when a racing driver sets the fastest time on a section of the track. This event aimed to help young people with epilepsy "Set Purple Sectors" by inspiring them to follow their dreams.

Chris McCarthy, diagnosed with epilepsy in his teens, shared his inspirational story of remaining in motorsport, not as the driver he always dreamed of being, but instead as a leading commentator, presenter, and broadcaster across F1, F2, and many more. Chris hoped to inspire other young people with his own experience of the impact of epilepsy on his life and, along the way, raised money for Young Epilepsy with some help from his very special guests.

So, who is Chris McCarthy?

After a seizure at 17 ended his dreams of becoming a Formula 1 driver, he pivoted to a successful career as a national and international motor racing commentator remaining in the sport he loves. Chris aims to inspire young people with epilepsy to pursue their passions despite challenges.

Read the blog

What an incredible opportunity to have had this evening, an amazing experience and for my boy with so little confidence to speak out like that!

Parent of Young Person who attended the event

For budding racers, streamers, and motorsport fans, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity they didn't want to miss. The event was the first-of-its-kind, with sim-racing heroes and top influencers driving into the world of motor racing, led by Chris and his friends from the world of F1, F2, and beyond, to raise money for a cause close to Chris’ heart.

The event highlighted the challenges facing children and young people with epilepsy and showed how finding a community is still possible. Participants took part in quizzes, polls, Q&As, and interviews with racers and presenters, all via the dedicated Tiltify live stream.