Kate Beavan, a board member and strategic consultant at More Than Equal, is part of an organization that aims to make a significant impact. Founded by David Coulthard, former Grand Prix winner, and businessman Karel Komarek, More Than Equal’s main goal is to develop the world’s first female Formula 1 champion.
The task ahead for More Than Equal is immense, considering that no woman has competed in F1 in the past fifty years. This is a clear indication of the gender imbalance in a sport that claims to be gender-neutral. More Than Equal is determined to address this issue through an extensive global research program and the implementation of a specialized driver development program for women, with the aim of nurturing the next generation of female racers.
What sets More Than Equal apart is its unconventional approach of recruiting members from outside the automotive industry. CEO Alison Donnelly brings her experience from Sport England, Chair Karen Webb Moss has experience in British Swimming and FIFA, and Head of the Driver Development Program, Tom Stanton, has a proven track record in British Cycling.
But why is all of this relevant to motorsport? Beavan provides an explanation.
“When More Than Equal was established, we made the deliberate decision to seek expertise from various areas,” said Beavan. “Why? Because currently there is no high-performance program in motorsport specifically designed for girls. So, we looked for someone who has successfully built such a program in another sport, like Tom Stanton from British Cycling. In addition, our CEO, Alison Donnelly, had no previous experience in Formula 1, but was recruited for her exceptional career in promoting women’s sports. With her incredible talent and previous roles at Number 10 Downing Street and the Treasury, she brings a unique perspective.”
By bringing people with different backgrounds and experiences, More Than Equal aims to revolutionize the world of motorsport and create equal opportunities for women.
Previously, she was director of Sport England, involved in initiatives like This Girl Can, which aimed to increase female participation in sports. Her experience at More Than Equal brought valuable insights into promoting women’s sports.
Karen Webb Moss, our president, joined us from the Olympic movement. With decades of involvement in the Olympics, she brought valuable experience from other sports. Our goal from the beginning was to recruit the best individuals, regardless of their background, to address the long-standing issue in motorsport.
One area where women’s sports are gaining prominence is professional football, especially on the international stage with the Women’s World Cup and the UEFA Euro. Beavan challenged broadcasters to give more coverage to female athletes. The response she received highlighted the challenges faced in promoting women’s sports.
“I remember discussing with the BBC how they didn’t cover women’s sports because they didn’t believe anyone would watch,” Beavan recalled. “But now people are watching. It’s a bit of a chicken and egg situation. We need people to believe, invest, and provide coverage to increase its popularity and generate commercial opportunities.”
However, as Beavan points out, the conversation around gender-neutral sports is a bit different. The focus shifts to whether women can compete and succeed. Although it is evident that they can, sometimes visual evidence is needed to dispel any doubts.
“Horse racing is a classic example,” Beavan explained. “Rachel Blackmore’s convincing victory in the Grand National as the first female jockey changed the entire narrative. Previously, there was a debate about whether women could compete at the highest level of horse racing. Now, the discussion is about how we can create more opportunities for women. This mirrors our goals in Formula 1 and with More Than Equal. The narrative in Formula 1 revolves around whether a woman can truly compete at that level.”
“That’s why our focus is on getting a woman to compete and win in Formula 1. We need to change the narrative and debunk the myth. Once a woman wins a Formula 1 world championship, the conversation will shift to how we can promote more success, rather than questioning its possibility.”
The narrative is already starting to change in other motorsport series, considering the tremendous triumph of the all-female racing initiative Iron Dames in sports cars.
Last year, the Iron Dames achieved a historic victory in the FIA World Endurance Championship, becoming the first all-female team to do so. The triumph of Sarah Bovy, Michelle Gatting, and Rahel Frey in the final GTE race at the Eight Hours of Bahrain deserves recognition.
Beavan praises Deborah Mayer, founder of the Iron Dames, for her exceptional efforts. Mayer’s achievements serve as a significant inspiration for More Than Equal. However, achieving a female winner in Formula 1 takes the challenge to a whole new level, capable of breaking barriers on a global scale.
“Mayer is a true heroine for what she has achieved,” says Beavan. “She has backed up her words with actions, investing in female talent and showing that they can compete and win against men. My congratulations to her for that. While it is an important story, it still does not compare to Formula 1.
“Until Formula 1 achieves this feat, it has not truly been accomplished. It is truly inspiring to witness Deborah Mayer’s efforts and the incredible work she is doing. This aligns with our message that there is no physical barrier preventing women from competing at the highest level in Formula 1. Now we need not only to talk about it but also to demonstrate it to achieve the same level of success as Deborah.”
Beavan’s determination and spirit reflect those of the entire More Than Equal organization. The drive to inspire the motorsport community to improve and elevate female racing athletes is immense. It is impossible not to get involved and pledge support. Although there is still a long way to go, it is becoming increasingly evident that More Than Equal will triumph.
© 2024
There was a spectacular sports event yesterday that left fans from all over the world in ecstasy. The football match between rival teams Brazil and Argentina was an exciting battle from start to finish. Both teams showed incredible skills and determination to win.
The stadium was packed with passionate fans, who spared no energy in supporting their teams. The players did not disappoint either, providing a high-intensity spectacle. Dribbles, precise passes, and powerful shots kept the spectators on the edge of their seats.
The first half was dominated by Brazil, who managed to score two goals. Argentina, however, did not give up and reacted in the second half, scoring an incredible goal. The tension increased as time passed and the two teams fought to secure the victory.
When the final whistle blew, Brazil emerged victorious with a score of 2-1. The celebration was intense, with the players and fans celebrating the achievement. The Brazilian coach praised his team’s performance and highlighted the importance of unity and teamwork.
The match between Brazil and Argentina will certainly go down in football history. It was an exciting game, full of unforgettable moments. Fans of both teams can be proud of their players’ performance and eagerly await the next matchups.
It is safe to say that sports bring people together and provide moments of pure emotion. Football, in particular, has the power to unite nations and create healthy rivalries. Here’s to more exciting games like this in the future!
