Written by Oliver Pallas
Drivers such as Sabine Schmitz, Lella Lombardi, Pat Moss, and Danica Patrick, are sporting legends from their respective decades, who have pioneered a chance for women in the modern era. Behind the wheel, and behind the scenes, women have become increasingly involved within motorsport.
The Girls on Track programme aims to encourage more women to find a place of their own within motorsport. The programme is a joint initiative that combines Susie Wolff’s ‘Dare to be Different’ initiative, and the FIA’s Girls on Track.
“There are many women working in very good and competitive jobs within motorsport. But they’re often hidden from on-track success,” says Jenny Fletcher, programme manager of Girls on Track UK.
What is Girls on Track?
The Girls on Track UK programme seeks to ‘connect, inspire and showcase females’ across the motorsport world. From racing, to behind-the-scenes jobs, the initiative provides a wealth of opportunities for women to get involved. The programme offers race weekends for 8-11 and 11–14-year-old girls, who may have an interest in beginning their motorsport journey.
“It’s crucial to offer young girls the opportunity to learn in an environment surrounded by people with a similar interest, that motorsport isn’t just a sport for boys,” says Jenny Fletcher.
Girls on Track ensures that participants can engage in their first taste of competition in an all-female racing environment. The programme has a community of over 8,500 members all with an interest in motorsport.
The programme is targeted primarily at girls in the 16-24 age bracket. Girls on Track offers a range of opportunities for girls looking to get involved in STEM-based careers, where they are offered webinars, work experience opportunities and networking events alongside their partners Alpine and McLaren. A key ambition of these events is give the girls an opportunity to get their foot in the door and begin their motorsport journey.
Fletcher wants to encourage more teams to commit to the Girls on Track UK programme.
“It’s important for the teams to appreciate the undeniable talent on offer. These girls are following their passions of where they want to be, which is vital for the sport going forward.”
Inspiring Generations
Female role models play a vital role in energising the promotion and awareness of motorsport. From pioneers of the past, to modern day trailblazers like Susie Wolff, Jamie Chadwick and Sophia Floersch, the sport’s demographic landscape is changing with each lap.
Wolff’s Dare to be Different programme unites an online female community and aims to inspire the next generation. The F1 Academy has also played a crucial role in inspiring the next female superstars in the sport.
“Motorsport should be about males and females competing against each other,” says Fletcher. ‘The F1 Academy has been brilliant at shining a light on some of the brightest talent in motorsport both on the track and in the paddock.”
It is no secret that women face challenges when becoming involved in the sport. In times of challenge, aspiring drivers must prove their abilities in the midst of doubters.
“I think you have to have a lot of gumption, and a ‘just do it attitude’ to be the only girl in the paddock or on the grid and face up to these tendencies,” she says.
“That being said, I have noticed a lot of boys who are very supportive of their competitors. Once the visor is down, they have the attitude of girls being ‘just another racer’. It only takes a few women to become the face of the paddock for people to then open their eyes.”
“It’s not just about driving. Motorsport is a sport for everyone and it should be inclusive. We are slowly getting there, but there is still a long way to go.”
The growing involvement of women in various facets of motorsport signifies a positive shift towards gender equality in the sport. As we continue to support these efforts, the dream of a truly inclusive motorsport community is becoming a reality. With ongoing support and recognition, the sport will continue to evolve, ensuring that future generations see motorsport as an arena for all, regardless of gender.
You can find out more about Girls on Track here.
