Shayni Solanki

Jan 10, 2025 | motorsportweek.com | Shayni Solanki

F1 Academy Managing Director Susie Wolff discusses the “F1 Academy effect” in grassroots motorsports with female participation levels increasing to 25%. Wolff took to the F1 Acacemy helm shortly before its inaugural season in 2023 and set out to diversify motorsport’s playing field. In two years Wolff has sent two champions to FRECA and GB3, facilitated driver signings in F1 team driver programmes, and helped boost female participation levels in motorsport.

Dec 5, 2024 | motorsportweek.com | Shayni Solanki

F1 Academy announced a third race in Abu Dhabi to replace the cancelled second race in Qatar, stripping Abbi Pulling of her title. Pulling wrapped up the title fight a round early in Qatar, taking an 83-point lead ahead of Doriane Pin with only 82 points up for grabs. The Rodin Motorsport driver claimed her maiden F1 Academy title in dramatic fashion, finishing behind the Iron Dame while the second race was cancelled due to significant barrier damage.

Nov 23, 2024 | motorsportweek.com | Shayni Solanki

Yuki Tsunoda said his target is set on Pierre Gasly during the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, hoping to “attack Pierre” for a possible top-five finish. The RB has performed far better than expected in qualifying around the Las Vegas Strip Circuit with Tsunoda putting in a solid performance to fight his way into Q3. In comparison to his teammate Liam Lawson who qualified in 15th place, Tsunoda was able to manage the car in the tricky, cool conditions.

Nov 23, 2024 | motorsportweek.com | Shayni Solanki

British driver Alisha Palmowski has been announced as the Wild Card entry for the F1 Academy 2025 penultimate round in Qatar. Palmowski is experienced in single-seater racing, claiming victory in her debut GB4 Championship race alongside the Vice Champion title. The 18-year-old scored two wins, two pole positions, and 11 podiums in her debut campaign which put her on the map for a Formula E test.

Nov 23, 2024 | motorsportweek.com | Shayni Solanki

Formula E has announced an enhanced FIA Girls on Track programme for Season 11 which promises new opportunities for 50 young women on race days. The electric racing series will offer new race-day opportunities including behind-the-scenes access to young women looking to build a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Formula E previously hosted 120 young women across 10 races last year and worked with FIA Girls on Track to support 4,500 young women in the sport.