Even women can participate in Formula 1 races. Despite this, the last woman to compete in the motorsport competition was in 1992, and her name was Giovanna Amati. Women face many challenges to participate in the Formula 1 races. One can read more about the challenges faced and progress made by female drivers at www.total-motorsport.com/women-in-formula-1-challenges-and-progress/.
Challenges Faced by Women to Participate in Formula 1
The first challenge faced by women is because of low participation. Out of everyone, 10% of participants in motorsports are women, and only 13% of participants in karting races are women. The second challenge is that women have smaller racing careers. The racing career of women typically lasts between one to five years. Meanwhile, men’s jobs in motorsports last for more than ten years.
The third challenge is a financial challenge faced by women. Since motorsports are expensive and there are limited women in Formula 1, economic issues are more evident among female racers. The fourth challenge is that women racers often need more support from specific training programs. These programs should be catered to their racing objectives.
The fifth challenge is that female role models are scarce in motorsport. This makes it difficult for potential female racers to find inspiration, support and mentorship as they move up the ranks. Finally, the fact that there has not been any female racer since 1976 has given birth to certain prejudices. One of them is that the motorsport culture may not be welcoming towards female racers.
Progress Made by Female Drivers in Formula 1
Many positive things have happened despite all the challenges faced by women in Formula 1. They are:
- A greater number of women have taken leadership roles.
- Initiatives have been developed to support female talent at the F1 motorsport events.
- Organisations have been supporting the advocation of gender equality in the field of motorsports.
- Formula 1 organisations have also taken the initiative to support diversity and inclusion.
Therefore, we conclude that even though female drivers in F1 face many challenges, there is good progress in the industry.
