In a groundbreaking move for motorsport, Formula E will host its first-ever all-female test session during the upcoming pre-season event in Valencia. On November 7, up to 22 female drivers will take part in this historic half-day test, marking the first time an FIA World Championship has organized such a session. Each of the 11 teams in the all-electric series will field at least one female driver, though they are encouraged to run two, in an effort to provide women with equal opportunities at the highest level of racing.
“State-of-the-Art Cars, Equal Playing Field”
Unlike other motorsport tests where female drivers often have to contend with outdated or restricted machinery, this Formula E test will put women behind the wheel of the GEN3 Evo car—a machine that accelerates 30% faster than an F1 car. The opportunity to drive cutting-edge technology in the same conditions as the championship drivers provides a level playing field for female talent to shine.
“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, conditions for all need to be the same to aid their development and test themselves against those already on the starting grid.”
“A Long Road Ahead, But a Key First Step”
Formula E recognizes that this test alone won’t immediately solve the deep-rooted gender disparity in motorsport. But it’s a pivotal starting point. “We also recognize that one test will not solve the longstanding issue, but we have to start somewhere,” Dodds emphasized. The test is part of a broader initiative by Formula E to foster female participation, including simulator sessions, additional test opportunities, and the “FIA Girls On Track” program, which will involve up to 400 girls in educational experiences during the test.
“Paving the Way for Future Female Champions”
Formula E’s push for gender equality reflects its fanbase, which has an almost equal split between male and female followers. Dodds noted that it’s time for the drivers and the sport’s ecosystem to reflect that reality: “It’s only right that our drivers and wider ecosystem are representative of those that follow and support the sport.”
While female drivers like Katherine Legge, Simona de Silvestro, and Michaela Cerruti have competed in Formula E’s early days, this all-female test represents a significant step forward. Alice Powell and Marta Garcia, two standout talents from last season’s rookie test in Berlin, are likely to be involved in this upcoming event as the sport continues to foster female talent.
Formula E’s initiative is more than just a symbolic gesture—it’s a proactive, game-changing step toward ensuring that women have the opportunity, visibility, and equality they deserve in the world of motorsport.
