The Story Behind Lights Off: From the Racetrack to the Brand

"And it’s lights out, and away we go!" This iconic phrase from Formula 1 was supposed to inspire the original name of my brand. But when I discovered that "Lights Out" was already trademarked, a new name was born: Lights Off – a symbol of new beginnings and focus, perfectly reflecting my vision. Today, that name stands for more than motorsport. It embodies passion, quality, and community.

From the Racetrack to Inspiration

My connection to motorsport runs deep. As a driver in disciplines like karting, rallycross, and GT racing, I’ve experienced not only the thrill of speed but also the challenges that come with the sport. Motorsport is often an exclusive world: without sufficient financial backing and the right connections, dreams can be left unfulfilled. In 2024, I faced this reality myself. Instead of giving up, I decided to create a solution—not just for myself but for others who share my passion.

The Birth of Lights Off

The idea of starting a clothing brand first came to me in 2020 during the pandemic, but back then, I lacked the courage to pursue it. In 2024, with my knowledge from university and my experience as a working student, I finally felt ready to take the leap. The early steps were far from easy. A close friend who initially partnered with me left the project, and Lights Off became a solo venture. Over time, however, family and friends stepped in to help: one supports accounting, another assists with photoshoots. Slowly but surely, Lights Off grew into what it is today.

Quality and Values

From the very beginning, my vision was clear: Lights Off should offer more than just clothing. Every product represents high quality, fair production, and sustainability—from the materials to the eco-friendly packaging. The designs fuse motorsport insider references with pop culture elements or vice versa. They’re crafted to appeal not only to motorsport fans but to anyone with an eye for style.

The Challenge of Getting It Right

Germany is a tough place for entrepreneurs. Bureaucratic hurdles, legal requirements, and tax obligations demand a lot of patience and precision. From day one, I’ve committed to doing everything the right way. This means triple-checking terms and conditions, data protection, and tax filings. It’s exhausting, but for me, it’s the only way to build a solid foundation for Lights Off.

A Dream in Motion

Lights Off is still operating at a loss, as is common for many startups. But I remain optimistic. Every euro earned goes straight back into the brand—to fund new products, community events, and the vision behind Lights Off. My dream is to create not just a brand but a movement: a community that lives, breathes, and supports motorsport.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we can achieve greatness!