F1 Academy will take a decisive step in developing female racing talent with its first-ever rookie test, scheduled for 17–18 September at Circuito de Navarra. The event signals a major moment for the series as it continues to strengthen its role in creating a pathway for women in single-seater racing.
A global pool of talent
Eighteen female drivers, aged 15–21 and all eligible to compete in 2026, have been carefully selected to take part in the two-day programme. Their inclusion not only reflects the increasing international recognition of the series but also demonstrates the growth of a highly competitive pool of female drivers ready to take the next step.
Furthermore, the rookie test will run alongside official F1 Academy testing, ensuring that all participants drive under identical conditions with the same equipment. This structure is crucial because it removes external factors and, as a result, creates a fair and level playing field where talent can shine. Consequently, the goal is to give each driver a realistic chance to secure either a full-time seat or a Wild Card entry for the 2026 season.
Immersed in team environments
On the first day, the drivers will experience the professional side of motorsport by embedding themselves within an F1 Academy team. They will observe team briefings and engineering sessions, gaining insight into the technical and collaborative demands of racing at this level.
Alongside this, each driver will undergo a series of physical and cognitive assessments, designed and delivered by More than Equal, the series’ Official Driver Performance & Research Partner. These assessments will provide data on strength, cognition, and endurance, helping drivers and their coaches understand where improvements can be made.
The 2025 F1 Academy grid will also take part in these evaluations, ensuring a consistent baseline across current and prospective drivers. The findings will not only guide individual development but also contribute to long-term strategies for improving female driver performance throughout their careers.
The second day of the rookie test will place the spotlight firmly on performance behind the wheel. The 18 selected drivers will share six hours of testing in F1 Academy machinery, giving them the chance to demonstrate speed, adaptability, and racecraft in identical conditions.
Equal chance. Equal machinery.
— F1 Academy (@f1academy) September 11, 2025
These 18 drivers are heading to Circuito de Navarra for a chance to prove themselves in the F1 Academy Rookie Test.
Who will rise to the occasion and secure their spot on the 2026 grid? #F1Academy pic.twitter.com/1NYpbnZpWk
A landmark step for the series
F1 Academy Managing Director Susie Wolff highlighted the wider significance of the test, describing it as a pivotal point not only for the series but for motorsport as a whole. She underscored the progress made in expanding the female talent pool and emphasised the importance of creating fair opportunities for the most competitive drivers.
“This is a landmark moment, not just for F1 Academy as a series, but for our sport. Over the past three years, the global female talent pool has grown stronger and more competitive, and our priority is to ensure that we have the best possible drivers competing in F1 Academy. With this test, we are providing eighteen of the most promising talents with an equitable platform for them to demonstrate that they deserve a seat on an F1 Academy grid.”
Building a pipeline for the future
Katie Denver, Performance & Talent Development Manager for F1 Academy, stressed that the rookie test is not simply symbolic but part of a deeper commitment to change. She explained how the initiative aims to build a more structured and accessible pathway for female drivers, ensuring that opportunity matches potential.
“This test is more than just a statement of intent; it reflects our deep-rooted commitment to identifying and nurturing the next generation of female talent and strengthening the future talent pipeline. Change demands meaningful action, and our mission is to create a clearer, more accessible pipeline that breaks down barriers, and creates a pathway for the most talented to succeed.”
Research-led driver development
Tom Stanton, CEO of More than Equal, highlighted the significance of combining research-led performance insights with real-world track time. He emphasised that the rookie test will not only benefit the individual drivers but also create a stronger knowledge base to shape the future of female motorsport development.
“Supporting F1 ACADEMY in delivering important physical and cognitive assessments at this rookie test reflects our shared mission to ensure that the most talented female drivers are given the tools, data, and opportunities they need to succeed. By combining research-led insights with real track experience, we are not only helping individual drivers unlock their potential but also building the knowledge base required to strengthen the entire pipeline of female talent in motorsport. This initiative is a landmark moment in creating a level playing field for the next generation.”
Drivers selected for the Rookie Test
The 18 drivers chosen for the rookie test represent a broad international mix of rising stars:
- Lisa Billard
- Laura Bourguet
- Annabelle Brian
- Megan Bruce
- Alexia Danielsson
- Eva Dorrestijn
- Autumn Fisher
- Zoe Florescu Potolea
- Natalia Granada
- Alexandra Herve
- Jade Jacquet
- Imogen Radburn
- Rachel Robertson
- Michalina Sabaj
- Emma Scarbrough
- Ella Stevens
- Alexandra Vateva
- Payton Westcott
The rookie test will provide crucial experience for the drivers while also advancing the wider mission of F1 Academy and its partners. By combining professional immersion, evidence-based assessments, and competitive track time, the event sets a new benchmark for how female drivers are identified, supported, and prepared for elite competition.
