F1 Academy has introduced a groundbreaking Driver Development Guide designed to empower young girls at any stage of their motorsport journey. Developed in partnership with >= More than Equal, the Official Driver Performance & Research Partner of F1 Academy, the guide is the first of its kind and provides a comprehensive resource to help young female drivers navigate the challenges of entering and progressing in motorsport.
The guide was created by the F1 Academy Performance & Talent Development team to address the need for tailored support for young girls aspiring to succeed in the sport. It offers detailed insights and practical advice for drivers and their support networks, covering topics such as technical race craft, health-specific advice for female drivers, physical development, mental skills, and the social influences that impact performance and lifestyle.
Available for free download on the newly launched Driver Development Hub on the F1 Academy website, the guide is part of a broader initiative to provide accessible resources for young drivers, parents, and caregivers. The hub also includes links to additional insights, event opportunities, and nutrition fundamentals, as well as the option to register for Driver Development Virtual Workshops. These interactive sessions are designed to bring the guide to life, offering participants the chance to engage directly with industry professionals and gain practical guidance on implementing the strategies outlined in the guide.
Susie Wolff, Managing Director of F1 Academy, emphasized the importance of supporting young female talent in motorsport. “We know for the long-term success of F1 Academy, it's essential that we have more girls racing so that the best can rise to the top,” Wolff said. “It has taken a lot of hard work over the past year to create this first-of-its-kind guide. Supporting and nurturing young female talent is at the heart of this series; that's why we have worked with experts to provide a comprehensive resource that can inform and help any young girl in her motorsport journey. This guide, the Driver Development Hub, and the online webinars are providing the resources we hope will help young girls maximize their potential to become the best racing drivers they can be.”
Katie Denver, F1 Academy Performance & Talent Development Manager, highlighted the guide’s holistic approach to driver development. “We know that unlocking the final few tenths on track is crucial, and young drivers often have to look beyond the car to find small improvement areas or 'marginal gains,'” Denver explained. “With this in mind, we want to support every aspect of up-and-coming female talent development. The guide takes a truly holistic approach—from physical and mental conditioning guidance to understanding technical skill and tactical thinking. It's about building well-rounded young drivers who are prepared for the demands and pressures of the highest levels of the sport, both on and off track.”
The launch of the Driver Development Guide represents a significant step forward in F1 Academy’s mission to increase female representation in motorsport. By equipping young girls with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, the initiative aims to create a stronger pipeline of talent and ensure that the best drivers have the opportunity to rise to the top. The Driver Development Guide and accompanying resources are now available on the F1 Academy website, offering a valuable starting point for young girls and their families as they embark on their motorsport journeys.