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In a groundbreaking move for women in motorsport, all 10 Formula 1 teams will have a chosen driver in the all-female F1 Academy from next year. This decision is a significant step forward in promoting gender equality in a sport traditionally dominated by men, and it marks a new era in the history of Formula 1 racing. This move is not just about representation; it’s about changing the narrative and breaking down the barriers that have kept women on the sidelines of this high-octane sport.
The F1 Academy, currently in its inaugural season in 2023, is a platform dedicated to nurturing up-and-coming female racers. This initiative is a testament to the commitment of the Formula 1 community to diversify the sport and provide equal opportunities for all. Each team will also have their livery on a car in the junior series, further emphasizing their commitment to fostering female talent in motorsport.
The Academy’s races will be hosted on the support bill at a number of grands prix worldwide from next year. This move will provide the female racers with a global platform to showcase their talent and skills, and it will also help to increase the visibility of women in motorsport. This year, only the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, in October is hosting an F1 Academy race.
The series currently has five teams each running three cars, making up a 15-driver grid. This structure provides a competitive environment for the female racers to hone their skills and gain valuable racing experience. It’s a unique opportunity for these women to compete at a high level and demonstrate that they have what it takes to succeed in the world of Formula 1.
F1 Academy managing director Susie Wolff, a former Williams F1 test driver who competed in the DTM German touring car championship for seven years, called this a “landmark moment” for females in motorsport.
“This landmark moment not only demonstrates the depth of support for F1 Academy from across the F1 community but will inspire a whole generation of young girls to realise the opportunities both on and off track in motorsport,” said Wolff.
Wolff’s statement underscores the importance of this initiative in inspiring young girls to pursue their dreams in motorsport. It sends a powerful message that women can excel in this sport and that they have the full support of the F1 community. It’s a call to action for young girls everywhere to dream big and pursue their passion, regardless of the traditional gender norms in the sport.
With 10 of the competitors now to be nominated by Formula 1 teams next year, F1 said in a statement that the remaining five drivers would be “supported by other partners”, to be revealed in due course. This arrangement ensures that all the drivers in the F1 Academy will have the necessary support and resources to succeed.
F1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said: “We created F1 Academy to bring about real and lasting change to ensure young female talent have the right system in place to follow and achieve their dreams. Today is a very important moment as it shows the impact the project is having and the support it is receiving from across the F1 community.”
This move by the F1 community is a significant stride towards gender equality in motorsport. It not only provides a platform for young female talent to shine but also sends a powerful message to the world about the importance of inclusivity and diversity in sports.
As we look forward to the future of motorsport, it is clear that women will play an increasingly prominent role, both on and off the track. The F1 Academy is just the beginning of this exciting journey. The commitment of the F1 teams to support female drivers in the Academy is a clear indication of the changing landscape of motorsport.
In conclusion, the decision of all 10 F1 teams to have a driver in the all-female F1 Academy is a significant milestone in the history of motorsport. It is a testament to the commitment of the F1 community to promote gender equality and diversity in the sport. As we move forward, we can expect to see more initiatives like this that aim to break down barriers and create equal opportunities for all in motorsport. This is a moment of celebration, not just for the women who will be taking their place on the starting grid, but for everyone who believes in the power of diversity and inclusion in sports. The future of motorsport is looking brighter, and it’s clear that women will be at the forefront of this exciting new era.
As F1 is a male-dominated environment, you have to prove yourself. And first of all that means being given the chance to prove yourself
Susie Wolff
Managing Director of F1 Academy
As F1 is a male-dominated environment, you have to prove yourself. And first of all that means being given the chance to prove yourself
Susie Wolff
Managing Director of F1 Academy
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