FIA Takes Big Steps in Getting F1 Its First Female Driver Since 1992

Formula one might finally be making some headway in incorporating female drivers. The W series will be awarding super license points from the upcoming season. This will help female drivers trying to make it to F1.

W series to award F1 Super Licence points

The W series is an all-female racing championship – created to help women advance in motorsport. Jaimie Chadwick won the inaugural championship held last year. Williams F1 signed Chadwick as a development driver.

Historically, F1 has seen limited involvement of women in the sport. The last female driver to compete in Formula one was Giovanna Amati. British team Brabham signed Amati for the 1992 F1 season. However, the Italian failed to impress and her inexperience could clearly be seen. Brabham sacked Amati after just 3 races- replacing her with Damon Hill.

Next year onwards, the W series will award super license points according to the Championship standings. This will apply to the top 8 drivers- the leader getting 15 points and 8th place getting 1 point. The Super License is a drivers’ ticket to getting into F1 and requires a minimum of 40 points.

Women in motorsport getting a major push

Former F1 driver and W series advisory board chairman David Coulthard was thrilled by the announcement.

“Personally, I’m delighted that W Series has been further recognized by the FIA via the allocation of Super License points, the holy grail in any driver’s aspiration to become a Formula 1 driver,” said Coulthard.

“Irrespective of where our current W Series drivers may race in future, the FIA’s decision confirms my absolute belief that W series is essential in developing female talent and giving female drivers the opportunity to develop their skills so as to become successful professional racing drivers in the future.

“I would like to thank the FIA president, Jean Todt  for his vision and support ahead of what is only the second season of the W Series championship.”

However, the W series has come under immense scrutiny for segregating male and female drivers. Skeptics believe the sport is against its primary goal of including women in the world of male-dominated motorsports.

The second edition of the W series will begin in Russia at the Igora Drive complex on May 30, 2020.