Susie Wolff, the pioneering chief executive of the F1 Academy, is rewriting the rules of motorsport with an unprecedented increase in female participation. Just two years after taking the reins of the all-female racing series, Wolff is celebrating what is now called the ‘F1 Academy Effect’, with grassroots female involvement in motorsport reaching 25%.
A Bold Vision to Diversify the Grid
When Wolff took up his position ahead of the Academy’s inaugural season in 2023, his mission was clear: to break the long-held perception that motorsport is a male-dominated field. With champions now progressing to prestigious series like FRECA and GB3, and female drivers signed by elite F1 development programs, its impact is undeniable.
In an interview with GoodwoodWolff expressed his pride in this transformation:
“We’ve never had this much female participation—25 percent. Karting experts call this the F1 Academy Effect. We’re showing young women that motorsport isn’t just for men, and it’s a huge hurdle for the next generation to overcome. »
Beyond the Numbers: Changing Perceptions
The ripple effects of the F1 Academy go far beyond participation statistics. Wolff emphasizes that visibility is key:
“They have to see women in racing suits, on the pit wall and in the garages to believe they can do it. Although I don’t have all the hard data yet, I can feel the wave of impact. »
The Academy’s efforts include scouting female talent from karting centers around the world and connecting them with high-profile sponsors like Tommy Hilfiger, Charlotte Tilbury, Puma and American Express. These partnerships not only fund careers, but also broaden the sport’s appeal to new, diverse audiences.
From Broadcasters to Big Brands: The Growing Ecosystem of the F1 Academy
The Academy’s partnership with Formula 1 has amplified its influence. In its second season, the collaboration deepened, with all ten F1 teams now required to sponsor an F1 Academy driver. This has given rising stars like Abbi Pulling and Doriane Pin opportunities to join Alpine and Mercedes’ driver development programs.
“We managed to get huge exposure in the first year, racing alongside F1 and working with brands like Charlotte Tilbury and Tommy Hilfiger,” Wolff explained. “It’s about changing perceptions on a global scale. »
A Long Term Vision
Although the F1 Academy is already breaking barriers, Wolff sees this as a long-term project. The upcoming 2025 season will expand the grid, increasing the number of cars and drivers competing.
“We have achieved a lot, but success will not just be about getting a girl into Formula 1,” Wolff said. “It’s about finding exceptional talent and ensuring they have the funding, trajectory and visibility to succeed. »
Wolff is quick to acknowledge the complexity of reaching Formula 1:
“To get to F1, you have to be exceptional. But it’s also about joining the right team and being noticed by the right people. With F1 teams now involved, we are ensuring these opportunities exist. »
Looking to the future: Shanghai and beyond
The third season of the F1 Academy begins on March 21 at the Shanghai International Circuit, promising to build on its momentum. With a growing number of sponsors, deeper integration into F1 and a 25% increase in female participation, the F1 Academy isn’t just changing motorsport — it’s redefining it.
