In an unprecedented move towards inclusivity and diversity in motorsports, the all-electric Formula E series held a groundbreaking test exclusively for female drivers at the Jarama Circuit. This initiative, which required all 11 teams to field at least one female driver, saw 18 talented women take to the track, sampling the new Gen3 Evo machines. Among them was Abbi Pulling, the current points leader of the F1 Academy, who made a splash by clocking the fastest lap in the final hour of this three-hour session.
Pulling showcased her potential by completing the session with a remarkable lap time of 1m30.889s. This achievement not only underscores her talent but also emphasizes her potential to secure the F1 Academy title in the upcoming Qatar round, which would earn her a fully-funded drive in the UK’s GB3 Championship next season. Her time put her just 4.5 seconds off the pace set earlier by Jaguar’s Mitch Evans during pre-season testing, illustrating her rapid adaptation to the electric vehicle format.
The test highlighted the depth of talent among female drivers, with three-time W Series champion Jamie Chadwick finishing a close second, just 0.320 seconds behind Pulling. Chadwick’s experience was evident as she completed 39 laps during the session, the most for any driver. Her familiarity with the Formula E machinery from previous tests played a crucial role in her performance, hinting that experience is invaluable in such innovations.
In third place, McLaren’s Bianca Bustamante broke the 1m32s barrier during the session, demonstrating the competitive spirit and determination that characterize this group of racers. Notably, Miki Koyama and Beitske Visser also made their mark by finishing in the top six, showcasing the growing presence of female drivers across various motorsport levels.
However, not all stories were triumphant; several drivers faced significant challenges during the session. Jessica Edgar’s crash into the barriers at Turn 3 brought out a red flag, highlighting the inherent risks in motorsport. Meanwhile, Simona de Silvestro, a veteran with prior experience in Formula E, encountered technical issues that limited her to only six laps, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of racing.
Moreover, Lilou Wadoux from Jaguar was unable to take to the track at all, facing seat issues that prevented her from participating in this vital test. These setbacks serve as a reminder of the technical challenges that can arise even for the most skilled drivers.
As the dust settles on this historic event, it’s clear that the all-female test at the Jarama Circuit is more than just a race; it is a significant step towards fostering diversity within motorsports. The visibility of female drivers in a high-profile arena like Formula E is crucial for inspiring the next generation of racers. The performance of Pulling and her peers not only reflects their individual capabilities but also underscores the collective strength of women in a traditionally male-dominated sport, paving the way for future opportunities and greater inclusivity.