Formula 1 is to swap its recently scrapped grid girls programme, which for years saw promotional female models accompany drivers at the stages before and after a race, with grid kids, a move that will incorporate youth competitors as mascots, according to a statement on Monday. In a statement, director of Formula 1s commercial operations, Sean Bratches, said the new initiative would allow racing competitors currently in karting or junior formulae levels a chance to stand alongside their heroes on the grid as they prepare for Grand Prix races, reports Efe. This will be an extraordinary moment for these youngsters imagine, standing beside their heroes, watch as they prepare to race, the elite of the elite in motorsport, to be there, alongside them in those precious few minutes just before the start,Bratches said. What better way to inspire the next generation of Formula 1 heroes,he added, hoping that the move will boost the popularity among F1s young followers.