F1 Academy Accelerating Opportunities for Women in Motorsport
Launched in 2023 by the Formula One Group, F1 Academy is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing female talent in motorsport. This all-female, Formula 4-level single-seater racing series provides young women aged 16 to 25 with a platform to develop their skills and progress through the ranks of competitive racing .
Structure and Objectives
F1 Academy operates as a spec series, ensuring a level playing field where all competitors use identical Tatuus F4-T421 chassis equipped with 174-horsepower turbocharged engines from Autotecnica Motori and Pirelli tires . This uniformity emphasizes driver skill and development over technological advantages.
The series aims to bridge the gap between karting and higher tiers of motorsport, such as Formula 3 and Formula 2, by providing comprehensive training, competitive experience, and exposure to the professional racing environment. By doing so, F1 Academy seeks to increase female representation in motorsport's upper echelons.
2025 Season Highlights
The 2025 F1 Academy season features an expanded grid of 18 drivers across six teams: ART Grand Prix, Campos Racing, MP Motorsport, Prema Racing, Rodin Motorsport, and the newly added Hitech Grand Prix . Each team fields three cars, contributing to a diverse and competitive lineup.
The season comprises seven rounds, each supporting a Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend, thereby increasing visibility and integration with the broader motorsport community. The calendar includes races in Shanghai, Jeddah, Miami, Montreal, Zandvoort, Singapore, and concludes in Las Vegas .
Driver Development and Progression
F1 Academy places a strong emphasis on driver development, offering a clear pathway for progression. Notably, the 2023 champion, Marta GarcÃa, secured a fully funded seat in the 2024 Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA) . Similarly, 2024 champion Abbi Pulling advanced to the GB3 Championship with Rodin Motorsport in 2025 .
To further support career advancement, the series awards FIA Super Licence points to the top five finishers, aiding their eligibility for higher-tier competitions .
Cultural Impact and Media Representation
Beyond the track, F1 Academy has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion within motorsport. The upcoming Netflix docuseries, "F1: The Academy," produced by Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, aims to provide an intimate look into the lives of the drivers, highlighting their challenges and triumphs .
Events like the Ritz-Carlton's celebration during the Miami Grand Prix weekend underscore the growing recognition and support for female racers. Such initiatives not only elevate the profiles of the athletes but also inspire a new generation of women to pursue careers in motorsport .