P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 Academy Managing Director Susie Wolff discusses the “F1 Academy effect” in grassroots motorsports with female participation levels increasing to 25%.
Since taking over the F1 Academy in 2023, Wolff has focused on diversifying motorsport by sending two champions to FRECA and GB3, boosting female participation, and facilitating driver signings with F1 teams. Wolff expressed during an interview with Goodwood that the F1 Academy has significantly increased female participation in motorsport, inspiring young women to pursue racing careers. The F1 Academy scouts female drivers from karting centers worldwide and offers sponsorships and connections with high-profile partners such as Tommy Hilfiger, Charlotte Tilbury, and Puma. Wolff emphasized the importance of a long-term approach to the project, with plans to expand the number of cars for the next season and ensure champions progress appropriately. Furthermore, F1 Academy drivers have the opportunity to build relationships with F1 teams, with all teams required to sponsor a driver on the grid, providing a pathway for talents like Abbi Pulling and Doriane Pin to be signed by Alpine and Mercedes, respectively. Wolff’s vision for the F1 Academy is not just about getting one girl into Formula 1 but about nurturing exceptional talent, providing the right trajectory, funding, team placement, and exposure to elevate female drivers in the sport.
