In September of this year, F1 Academy announced their inaugural Rookie Test, paving way for young women into F1 Academy. This Rookie Test acted as an opportunity for 18 drivers to showcase their talent. This allowed them to prove they deserve a spot on the grid.
The Rookie Test has already proved to have its desired affect. Two drivers have already received an opportunity to race amongst the F1 Academy grid. In Singapore, Megan Bruce was announced to be stepping in for Anagnostiadis who suffered a fracture in training. Another rookie, Lisa Billard, was announced as the Wild Card Entry. These two girls showed pace throughout the Rookie Test.
In a Virtual Media Roundtable attended by Pit Debrief, Ella Lloyd spoke on the Rookie Test, sharing her thoughts. Lloyd made it clear that she found the Rookie Test to be a great opportunity for young drivers. This allowed them to get experience in the car. Lloyd was not present for the Rookie Test, although noted it was great to see them get out on track.
Lloyd acknowledged that it is rare to get the opportunity to get into a car without doing a full season. Giving young drivers this opportunity allows them to showcase their skill level. In addition, giving current drivers an idea of what talent its entering the category next year.
“Yeah, I think it’s an amazing opportunity for the rookie drivers to be able to jump in the car and have the opportunity to drive cars because obviously that’s basically the only opportunity you get unless you’re doing the full season.
“So yeah, I think it’s a really good opportunity and you can see what level they’re at and what drivers are going to be coming in then the following year. Unfortunately, I wasn’t there for the rookie test. But yeah, it’s good to see them all get out on track and with the good times.”
