Formula One Teams to Feature in F1 Academy Season
Formula One and F1 Academy have announced that all ten F1 teams will have a driver and livery on a car in next year’s F1 Academy season. This move is seen as a significant step towards closer integration between F1 and F1 Academy.
What is F1 Academy?
F1 Academy is an all-women junior series that is currently in its inaugural season. It features five teams with three cars, making a total of 15 drivers. The aim of F1 Academy is to provide a platform for young girls to showcase their talent and pursue a career in motorsport.
Next Year’s Grid
Out of the 15 drivers on next year’s grid, one will be nominated by Formula 1 teams. The identity of this driver will be confirmed at a later time. The remaining five drivers will need to find backing from outside partners. The complete driver line-up for the 2024 season has yet to be announced.
Integration with F1
Next season, F1 Academy will align its schedule with Formula One’s schedule. This move will further strengthen the ties between the two series and provide more opportunities for young female drivers to gain exposure and experience at the highest level of motorsport.
Reaction from F1 Academy
Susie Wolff, the managing director of F1 Academy, expressed her gratitude towards the Formula 1 teams for their support and vision. She believes that this collaboration will not only showcase the depth of support for F1 Academy within the F1 community but also inspire a whole generation of young girls to pursue opportunities in motorsport, both on and off the track.
“As we join the F1 calendar for next year and host F1 Academy Discover Your Drive events in the lead up to our races, I am confident that we will have a positive impact across our sport in the long term,” said Wolff.
Conclusion
The announcement that all ten Formula One teams will have a driver and livery on a car in next year’s F1 Academy season is a significant development for women in motorsport. It demonstrates the growing support and recognition of the talent and potential of female drivers. By aligning its schedule with Formula One, F1 Academy will provide young girls with more opportunities to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams in the world of motorsport.
With the complete driver line-up for the 2024 season yet to be announced, there is much anticipation and excitement surrounding the future of F1 Academy. This collaboration between F1 and F1 Academy has the potential to inspire a new generation of female drivers and change the landscape of motorsport for years to come.
(Photo: Eric Alonso / Formula 1 via Getty Images)