Formula E’s Commitment to Female Drivers Takes Significant Steps Forward
Formula E is keen to reintegrate female drivers into its ranks, yet recent rookie tests in Berlin suggest a challenging road ahead. Four female drivers participated in the Monday testing session, with Abbi Pulling, last year’s F1 Academy champion, finishing 17th overall with the Nissan team—the highest placement among the women involved.
Progress in Female Representation
A Competitive Field
The rookie test in Berlin attracted a mix of experienced and emerging talents, including former F1 racer Daniil Kvyat and notable Formula Two drivers. While Abbi Pulling stood out among the women, other competitors also made their mark: Ella Lloyd finished 18th with Mclaren, Jamie Chadwick ranked 19th with Jaguar, and Bianca Bustamante came in 22nd for Cupra Kiro. Despite finishing last, Bustamante’s extensive Instagram following highlights growing interest in women’s motorsport.
Optimism from Formula E Leadership
Jeff Dodds, Formula E’s chief executive, reflected on the positive strides towards greater female representation in the sport. He stated, “We went from no women testing to 20 women in the official women’s test last year, and now we have four women in the actual rookie test.” His vision includes the hope that a female driver will soon return to the starting grid: “It may not be next year, but I would love to see women back racing on that grid in the next couple of years.”
Historical Context and Future Aspirations
A Brief History of Female Drivers in Formula E
Women have previously competed in Formula E, with Katherine Legge, Simona de Silvestro, and Michela Cerruti making appearances in the series’ inaugural seasons. De Silvestro remains the only female driver to have scored points, while Formula 1 has not seen a woman race since Lella Lombardi in 1976.
The Pursuit of Equality in Motorsports
Pulling, who previously topped an all-female test, sees Formula E as a viable career path and is focused on climbing the motorsport ladder. She remarked, “For now, I’m going to keep going up the ladder and see where things take me. It all depends on how I perform this year.” This sentiment echoes the broader optimism for increased opportunities for women in motorsport.
Conclusion: A Long Road Ahead
While the recent rookie tests showcase the hurdles still facing female drivers in Formula E, the series is on an upward trajectory. With a commitment from leadership and a growing pool of talented women, the hope remains that a female driver will soon reclaim her place on the starting grid. As interest and investment in women’s motorsport continue to rise, the next few years could be pivotal for female representation in Formula E and beyond.