FIA Takes Big Steps in Getting F1 Its First Female Driver Since 1992
Follow Us
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.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
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.
Trending
Liam Lawson’s Surprise Contract Clause Threatens Daniel Ricciardo’s RB Seat
April 24, 2024 11:15 AM EDT
F1 Rumor: Adrian Newey to Join Ferrari, Leaving Red Bull Amid Christian Horner-Helmut Marko Fiasco
April 25, 2024 05:55 PM EDT
“[Charles] Leclerc Doesn’t Care About Ferrari”: F1 Insider’s Brutal Blow to Fred Vasseur & Co. Has Racing Community Lashing Out
April 24, 2024 05:00 PM EDT
What Is Azzurro La Plata and Azzurro Dino? Significance of Ferrari’s Historic Change to a Blue Livery for Miami GP
April 24, 2024 04:52 PM EDT
F1 Rumor: Oliver Bearman to Join Haas as Nico Hulkenberg Leaves Seat Empty to Join Kick Sauber Team
April 26, 2024 10:45 AM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest F1 stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
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.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“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.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
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.
Written by:
