The British driver, Abbi Pulling, captured in action during F1 Academy testing at France’s Circuit Paul Ricard
Starting next year, each of the 10 Formula 1 teams will select a representative to participate in the all-women’s F1 Academy.
In addition, each team will display their colors on a vehicle in the junior series, a platform designed for emerging female racers.
Susie Wolff, the F1 Academy’s managing director, deemed this development a “pivotal moment” for women in motorsport.
Inaugurated in 2023, the Academy’s races will be featured on the supporting bill of several grand prix events globally, starting next year.
For this year, the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, this October, is the only event hosting an F1 Academy race.
The series comprises five teams, each running three cars, forming a grid of 15 drivers. As of next year, 10 of these competitors will be selected by Formula 1 teams, while the remaining five will be “sponsored by other partners,” the identity of which will be disclosed in due time, according to an F1 statement.
Wolff, an ex-Williams F1 test driver and seven-year competitor in the DTM German touring car championship, said: “This pivotal moment not only displays the widespread support for the F1 Academy within the F1 community, but it also motivates a new generation of young girls to explore the many opportunities motorsport provides both on and off the track.
“With our inclusion in the F1 calendar next year and our plans to organize ‘F1 Academy Discover Your Drive’ events leading up to our races, I am confident that our influence will resonate positively throughout our sport in the long run.”
Stefano Domenicali, F1 president and CEO, said: “The F1 Academy was conceived to initiate a genuine and enduring shift to guarantee that young female talents have the right structure to pursue and realize their dreams.
“Today’s announcement marks a critical juncture as it reflects the project’s impact and the backing it is receiving from the entire F1 community.”
Pre-season testing schedule & 2023 car launches
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about All-women’s F1 Academy
When will the Formula 1 teams start fielding drivers in the all-women’s F1 Academy?
Starting next year, each of the 10 Formula 1 teams will select a representative to participate in the all-women’s F1 Academy.
How will the F1 teams be involved in the F1 Academy junior series?
Each Formula 1 team will display their livery on a car in the junior series, a platform designed for emerging female racers.
Who is Susie Wolff?
Susie Wolff is the managing director of the F1 Academy. She is an ex-Williams F1 test driver who competed in the DTM German touring car championship for seven years.
Where will the F1 Academy’s races be hosted next year?
From next year, the Academy’s races will be featured on the supporting bill of several grand prix events globally.
How many teams and drivers make up the F1 Academy’s grid?
The F1 Academy’s grid is composed of five teams, each fielding three cars, thereby forming a grid of 15 drivers.
What is the aim of the F1 Academy?
The aim of the F1 Academy is to initiate a genuine and enduring shift in motorsports, ensuring that young female talents have the appropriate structure to pursue and realize their dreams.
More about All-women’s F1 Academy
- F1 Academy Official Website
- Formula 1 Official Website
- Profile of Susie Wolff
- DTM German touring car championship
- US Grand Prix Information
7 comments
Wow, that’s big news! Way to go F1, finally some serious steps towards gender equality in motorsport.
So excited about this! More opportunities for women in racing, it’s about time tbh.
This is excellent news… can’t wait to see how this shakes up the sport!
Finally, F1’s waking up… This is the boost the sport needs. Props to all the teams getting involved!
cant wait for next season!! gonna be a game changer for sure 🙂
great stuff. really looking forward to see some fresh faces on the track.
Susie Wolff’s doin a fantastic job with the academy. Kudos to her and everyone involved.