Aston Martin have hailed a “special moment” as their driver ambassador Jessica Hawkins got her first taste of Formula 1 machinery when she drove a 2021-spec car at Budapest last week.
Hawkins, a28-year-old, W Series podium finisher and British Karting Champion – shared driving duties with the team’s reserve Felipe Drugovich.
Running was delayed because of heavy rain, but when the weather improved Hawkins was able to complete 26 laps across a series of runs.
Aston Martin said the test was the latest step in her work with the team, which will include supporting their entry in the all-female F1 Academy series in 2024.
“I want to say a big thank you to everyone at AMF1 Team for having the trust in me, believing in me, and for giving me this opportunity,” said Hawkins, who joined Aston Martin as a driver ambassador in 2021. “It’s taken me every bit of blood, sweat and tears to get here. When I first heard it might be a possibility, I could hardly believe it. I’ve had to keep it secret for months now – which was pretty hard! It’s been absolutely worth it and it’s given me really valuable insight. Nothing will compare to the acceleration and braking of a Formula 1 car and, having looked at the data, I’m really proud of my performance. Getting to drive the AMR21 has been a dream come true for me and one I’ve been ready to fulfill for a long time. I’ll keep pushing for more and, in the process, I want to inspire other women and let them know they should follow their dream no matter what it is.”