In a groundbreaking step towards inclusivity in motorsport, Formula E is gearing up for its second-ever female-specific test session, which will take place at the Valencia circuit. The all-electric series is pushing teams to run at least one female driver in the test, and incentives are in place to encourage multiple female participants. Following the success of the inaugural test in 2018 at Diriyah, this event promises to shine a spotlight on talented women racers, many of whom are making their mark in motorsport’s most competitive arenas.
Among the expected participants, Jamie Chadwick stands out. The 25-year-old, who has twice previously tested in Gen2 Formula E cars with NIO and Jaguar, is set to return to the electric series. Chadwick, who is currently pursuing a future in IndyCar, has maintained a connection with Formula E, attending races as a media presenter. While her team for the Valencia test remains a mystery, Jaguar is seen as a likely candidate once again. Chadwick’s return could indicate a potential move to the rapidly growing electric series.
Abbi Pulling, the current leader in F1 Academy points, is another standout expected to participate. The 21-year-old is associated with the Alpine Academy and will test with Nissan in Valencia. Pulling’s performance in the F1 Academy has generated considerable buzz, and her manager, Alice Powell, is working to secure her a seat in Formula 3 for 2025. Pulling’s presence at the test signifies her determination to expand her racing career, possibly transitioning into electric motorsport.
Speaking of Alice Powell, the Envision Racing test driver is also expected to make an appearance, continuing her long-standing role within Formula E. Powell’s expertise and continued involvement with the series further solidify her status as a pioneer for women in motorsport.
Another notable contender is Sophia Floersch, who has primarily raced in Formula 3 and endurance series like the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the European Le Mans Series (ELMS). Floersch, 23, has shied away from women-only racing series but will join the Valencia test with Nissan. Her experience across different disciplines and her resilience in motorsport make her a fascinating participant in this test.
Also joining the list of expected participants is Jessica Edgar, a rising star in F1 Academy. The cousin of former Envision Racing driver Jonny Edgar, the 19-year-old will follow in his footsteps, testing for DS Penske. Edgar has shown potential in F1 Academy, particularly in Jeddah, where she secured a strong fourth-place finish.
Spain’s Marta Garcia, the inaugural F1 Academy champion, will return to test with ERT in Valencia. Garcia made a strong impression at the Berlin rookie test earlier this year, and despite a challenging 2024 season in the Formula Regional European Championship, her presence at Valencia is a testament to her growing reputation in motorsport.
Rumors are swirling around Chloe Chambers, the American racer born in China, who may also make an appearance at Valencia. Chambers has had a competitive F1 Academy season with multiple podium finishes. Although it is unclear whether she will test with Andretti in Formula E, her presence would add another layer of intrigue to the event.
This upcoming female-specific test marks a pivotal moment for Formula E, which is actively supporting and promoting diversity in motorsport. The participation of these talented women, many of whom are already making waves in other racing series, showcases the growing opportunities for female drivers in high-level motorsport. As the full list of participants is expected in mid-October, the anticipation surrounding the test continues to build.
With Formula E serving as a testing ground for innovation and change, the Valencia test represents a step forward in shaping a more inclusive future for the sport.
