F1 launches all-female junior series

Rather than arriving in its stead, F1 Academy would act as a feeder for W Series, as well as F3, F2 and F1. A 15-car grid will be comprised of five teams – run by F2 and F3 teams – running three cars each. There will be seven events during which there will be three races, for a total of 21 races throughout the season, with 15 days of official testing allowed.

It will be a one-maker, with Taatus T421s running Autotecnica’s turbocharged 165PS engines spanning the grid. These will be running Pirelli tyres. Funding will come from a mix of the teams themselves, the drivers and a subsidy from F1. Cost to drivers will be €150,000, a comparatively massively reduced amount compared to costs for a drive in comparable series.

The intent is to offer the best possible opportunity for female drivers to get a leg up into single-seater series and demonstrate their talent, earlier on in their careers. More track time, more experience with teams, more racing, are all invaluable to any driver looking to get ahead. 

“Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their dreams and achieve their potential and Formula 1 wants to ensure we are doing everything we can to create greater diversity and routes into this incredible sport,” said Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

“That is why I am delighted to announce the F1 Academy that will give young female drivers the best chance to fulfil their ambitions through a comprehensive programme that supports their racing careers and gives them everything they need to move into F3 and hopefully to F2 and then the pinnacle of Formula 1. The more opportunity there is the better and this is designed to provide another route for the drivers to succeed.”

Images courtesy of Motorsport images