Female F1 drivers: The missing ingredient and how we FINALLY see an on-track breakthrough

Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, has been thrilling fans worldwide since its inception in 1950. Throughout the history of the championship, 34 different drivers have claimed the title, but despite its long-standing legacy, women have remained a rare sight in the sport. As of the 2024 season finale, a total of 778 male drivers have participated in F1 events, but only five women have ever taken part. In light of International Women’s Day, GPFans spoke with Sky F1 presenter Natalie Pinkham to reflect on the progress made in F1 for female drivers and to discuss the road ahead.
The conversation highlighted the significant strides that have been made in recent years to encourage more women to enter the motorsport world. Women like Claire Williams, who helped lead the Williams team for several years, have broken barriers in the business side of F1. However, on the track, female participation remains low. While the sport has introduced initiatives to foster young talent through programs like the W Series and partnerships with female racing teams, the challenge of breaking into F1 remains daunting.
Pinkham pointed out that there is a crucial missing ingredient in fostering future female F1 drivers: the support structures that would allow young girls to develop their skills in a way comparable to their male counterparts. In many sports, male athletes often have access to better coaching, more developed infrastructure, and early exposure, which gives them a head start. Pinkham emphasized that to make progress, it’s not enough to only offer opportunities to women but to ensure that these opportunities are just as robust and accessible as those available to men.
One breakthrough moment for women in F1 is the increased visibility of female drivers, thanks to the efforts of drivers like Susie Wolff, who participated in testing for the Williams team, and more recently, women like Jamie Chadwick, who has excelled in the W Series. Their presence on the track is an essential step forward in breaking down long-standing gender barriers in a sport that has traditionally been dominated by men.
Though progress has been made, Pinkham acknowledged that much more needs to be done, both in terms of increasing visibility for female drivers and providing the support structures that can help them thrive. As Formula 1 continues to evolve, it’s clear that the inclusion of women in the sport is not just about making history but about ensuring a future where gender no longer limits the potential of any driver, regardless of their background.
In 2025, Formula 1 fans can look forward to the start of the World Championship in Melbourne, Australia, from March 14-16, broadcast live on Sky Sports and NOW, a reminder that the journey toward a more inclusive future is ongoing.