Formula E will host its first all-female test as part of its upcoming pre-season test in Valencia, marking the first time an FIA world championship has hosted such a session.
As many as 22 drivers will take part in the half-day test on Nov. 7, with each of the 11 teams required to field one driver, but encouraged to run two.
“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.
“Unlike other series where women drivers have to use old or restricted machinery, they’ll be using the state-of-the-art GEN3 Evo car that accelerates 30% faster than an F1 car, just as our championship drivers do.”
The test is just one of a number of initiatives by Formula E to increase female participation in motorsport, with the series also working with teams and partners to provide further opportunities, such as simulator sessions and other tests for female drivers in the coming season. What’s more up to 400 girls also taking part in an “FIA Girls On Track” educational program during the test — something that will continue throughout the season.
“We also recognize that one test will not solve the longstanding issue, but we have to start somewhere, knowing there is a long way to go and making sure we’re making proactive, consistent steps that continue to make forward progress,” said Dodds. “As a motorsport with an almost-equal split of male and female fans, as well within Formula E including my exec and director teams, we believe it’s only right that our drivers and wider ecosystem is representative of those that follow and support the sport.”
Three female drivers have raced in Formula E to date, with Katherine Legge, Simona de Silvestro and Michaela Cerruti all driving in the series’ early days. Alice Powell and Marta Garcia (pictured above) were also among the drivers to take part in last season’s official rookie test in Berlin.