What do factory racing teams look for when selecting new drivers?

Factory teams look for drivers who understand racing is a business, not just a sport. Key qualities include: treating racing like a job with professional conduct, understanding that your role is ultimately to help sell products and services, having a social media presence with affiliate links so sponsors can track sales you generate, going above and beyond minimum contract deliverables, and demonstrating marketing aptitude. Race results are just the bare minimum - what you do between races and off the track is at least 50% of your value. Teams want drivers who can communicate the brand story authentically and conduct themselves in ways that push sales.