More Than Equal – The F1 Initiative Launched to Mentor Future Female Drivers

A new global independent initiative is working to mentor the next generation of female drivers in Formula One racing.

The More than Equal development program aims to support women’s progress in racing by identifying young talents and providing them with the necessary assistance to excel both on and off the track.

Six promising female drivers have been selected to participate in this unique program that utilises an Olympic-style talent identification approach. These drivers, aged between 13 and 14, have been chosen based on a rigorous, data-driven selection process that considered a wide range of criteria.

The selected drivers, chosen from all across the world, will work closely with a team of experienced driving coaches and members of the performance coaching group Hintsa, who provide support to Formula One drivers. They will receive technical and tactical coaching, physical training, and personal development guidance to enhance their skills and capabilities.

The program is hoping to address the gender disparity in motor racing, an industry that is predominantly male-dominated. With the last female driver starting a grand prix in 1976, initiatives like these will play a crucial role in fostering female participation and advancement in the sport.

The selected drivers will kick off their program by attending the Wurz test and training centre in Austria, established by Alex Wurz, the chair of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association. This marks the beginning of a long-term development journey for these talented female drivers, focusing not only on maximising their time behind the wheel but also on providing them with the necessary tools and support to thrive in the competitive world of motor racing.

The initiative is underpinned by a report published by More than Equal last year, which identified the challenges faced by girls and women in motor sport and proposed solutions to overcome these barriers. By prioritising the needs of female athletes and offering a tailored program that supports their unique journey in motor racing, More than Equal is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in Formula One and beyond.