Driving change: Formula E to host first-ever all-female test in Spain
The Valencia racing series aims to“accelerate diversity and equality across motorsport”
In a groundbreaking move for the world of professional driving, Formula E is set to make history by hosting an all-female test at the Ricardo Tormo circuit near Valencia in November. The test, which will feature 22 female drivers and the latest 'Gen3 Evo' cars, aims to accelerate diversity and equality across motorsport.
For the first time, each of the current teams in the Formula E championship will be required to field at least one female driver for the half-day test, with the option to field two. This is a significant step forward for women in motorsport, where female drivers are still underrepresented.
The test will provide “a tangible platform for a wide pool of elite drivers who may not otherwise have the opportunity” to get behind the wheel of a Formula E car, a spokesperson said this week.
The drivers have yet to be announced, but the event is expected to attract some of the best female talent from around the world.
While there are currently no female drivers in a Formula E race seat, the series has had female drivers compete in the past. In 2014, Katherine Legge, Simona de Silvestro and Michela Cerruti all took part in a Formula E race and last year, CEO of the World Endurance Championship, Frederic Lequien, announced plans to increase female participation in the series.
“We know there isn’t a simple solution for greater diversity in motorsport,” said Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds.
“If we’re going to truly give women equality, opportunity and visibility in our series, however, conditions for all need to be the same to aid their development and test themselves against those already on the starting grid.”
The 11th season of Formula E begins in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on December 7.
Image: Formula E
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