ABBI PULLING: RACING’S RISING STAR FACES PRESSURE IN PURSUIT OF FORMULA E GLORY
The world of motorsport has its eyes fixed on Abbi Pulling, the sensational British driver who stormed to victory in the 2024 F1 Academy, clinching the title with an astonishing nine wins out of 14 races. Pulling wasn’t just racing; she was dominating, leaving her closest rival, Doriane Pin, trailing by over 100 points in the championship standings. Now, nearly a year after her crowning achievement, Pulling is setting her sights on a new horizon: the electrifying world of Formula E.
After her triumph in the F1 Academy, Pulling earned herself a fully funded seat in the prestigious GB3 championship—a critical step up from the Formula 4 circuit to the more challenging Formula Regional spec cars. In this intense arena, Pulling finished in 10th place for the 2025 season, showcasing her talent by scoring points in 20 out of 24 rounds and celebrating a well-deserved podium finish at Brands Hatch. But what lies ahead for this fierce competitor?
Pulling’s ultimate ambition is crystal clear: she aims to race at the pinnacle of motorsport in the all-electric Formula E series. Her journey began with a thrilling test for Nissan in October 2024, where she outperformed expectations by setting the fastest time during the women’s test in Jarama, Madrid, leaving even renowned drivers like Jamie Chadwick in her dust.
Fast forward to June 2025, and Pulling was officially announced as Nissan’s rookie and simulator driver on a multi-year deal, further solidifying her position in the racing elite. Recently, she returned to the GEN3 Evo for the 2025 Women’s Test, where she once again showcased her prowess, finishing just 0.064 seconds behind the fastest time set by Chloe Chambers. This is a clear indication that Pulling is not just a name to watch—she is a force to be reckoned with.
However, the pressure is palpable. During her interview at the Formula E Women’s Test in Valencia, Pulling opened up about the weight of expectation on her shoulders. “Formula E is something that is really attractive, and I’d like to one day be a driver in this series. It’s a World Championship, and it’s the pinnacle at the end of the day,” she declared with determination. Yet, she acknowledged the challenges lying ahead: “Obviously, that’s a bit of pressure on me, but they’re giving me lots of support, and hopefully that can keep progressing in the future.”
The stakes are high, as Pulling is now seen as a trailblazer for women in motorsport. To secure a full-time position in the fiercely competitive Formula E would not only fulfill her dreams but also shatter barriers for female racers everywhere. The legacy of female drivers in Formula E, while groundbreaking, has been sparse, with Simona de Silvestro being the longest-serving female competitor in the series. Pulling’s ascent could mark a pivotal moment in the sport’s history.
As Pulling continues to develop her skills and push her limits, the motorsport community watches closely, eager to see if she can translate her incredible potential into full-time racing success. With her ambitious goals and relentless drive, one thing is certain: Abbi Pulling is not just racing; she is redefining what’s possible in the world of motorsport.
