In a groundbreaking and invigorating display of talent, Abbi Pulling, the current points leader of the F1 Academy, left an indelible mark at the recent all-female Formula E test hosted at the picturesque Jarama Circuit. As part of a concerted effort to promote gender diversity within motorsport, this test session was exclusively dedicated to female drivers, showcasing the prowess and promising futures of a diverse range of talents. Each of the 11 Formula E teams participated by fielding at least one female driver, leading to an impressive cohort of 18 athletes behind the wheels of the innovative Gen3 Evo machines.
Pulling proved her mettle by clocking a remarkable lap of 1m30.889s in the dying minutes of the three-hour session. This stellar performance not only spotlighted her skill but also underscored her growing stature in the motorsport realm. Importantly, Pulling’s experience in this prestigious competition could culminate in her clinching the F1 Academy title at the upcoming round in Qatar, affording her a fully-funded campaign in the esteemed GB3 Championship next season.
A Competitive Field of Wheelwomen
Finishing second was Jamie Chadwick, a respected name in women’s motorsport and a three-time W Series champion. Chadwick’s best lap, clocked at a time just 0.320 seconds behind Pulling, showcased her competitive spirit and extensive experience—having previously tested with Jaguar during the 2020 rookie season. During the session, she also distinguished herself by completing 39 laps, indicating both her skill and consistency throughout the day.
McLaren’s Bianca Bustamante showcased her ambition as she became the first driver to break the 1m32s mark in the latter half of the session. With Pulling’s blistering pace, Bustamante finished a commendable third, merely 0.826 seconds off the top time. Moreover, Miki Koyama’s improved lap times allowed her to secure a fourth-place finish, while Sauber Academy’s Lena Buhler and Beitske Visser rounded out the top six, reflecting a tightly contested session.
Challenges and Triumphs on Track
The excitement, however, was tempered by the challenges faced on the track. The session witnessed an unexpected red flag incident when Jessica Edgar’s car collided with the barriers at Turn 3, reflecting the inherent risks of high-speed motor racing. Such moments serve as reminders of the demanding nature of the sport and the acute concentration required by all drivers.
Notably, former Formula E competitor Simona de Silvestro returned to the fold after an extended hiatus and faced technical issues that hindered her performance. Driving for a customer team, Kiro, she could only log six laps. Equally disheartening was the experience of Jaguar’s Lilou Wadoux, who was ultimately unable to complete any laps due to seat-related issues, a reminder of how technical difficulties can impede even the most seasoned drivers.
The Jarama Circuit test not only showcased the extraordinary talent among female drivers but also emphasized the need for sustained support and recognition for women in motorsport. With rising stars like Pulling, Chadwick, and others, the horizon looks promising for this exciting avenue. As the industry continues to embrace inclusion and diversity, events like these will surely inspire the next generation of female racers, charting a path toward equality in the exhilarating world of motorsport.