AtanariaJust like characters in movies, women have always been boxed into categories that do not fit the job in the realms of motorsports. Whether it was for intellectual reasons, physical reasons or purely societal reasons, there were never enough good arguments against the mere presence of women near car-related professions throughout the years. Alongside Wolff, a motorsports maven who started her pro career in 2012 as a Williams Racing development driver and became the first woman to take part in a F1 race in over twenty-two years as she ran some tests and practices at the wheel of a F1 at the Great Britain Grand Prix in 2014. As the managing director of the F1 Academy, she brings her involvement and experience of women in motorsports implication which includes but is not limited to : being an Edinburgh University honorary fund winner for her continuous commitment to inspiring young women in sports in 2012, she is the founder of Dare to Be Different UK in 2015 helping girls join in motorsports careers which will soon partner with FIA Girls on Track to reach a broader community of women around the world and in 2016 she is the ambassador of the “She’s Mercedes” initiative which helps fund women-owned companies and ventures each year.
With the current success of the F1 Academy initiative, having driven so many great publicity during the Miami Grand Prix last month, it is a perfect moment to look back on Suzie Wolff’s career and achievements and talk about the future for women in motorsports.
The Karting Years
Susie Wolff, born Susie Stoddart on December 6, 1982, in Oban, Scotland, embarked on her motorsport journey at a young age. Inspired by her father, a motorcycle racer, Wolff started karting at eight. Her talent quickly became evident, as she secured several karting championships, including the British Woman Kart Racing Driver of the Year award in 1996, 1997, and 1998.
Transitioning to Professional Racing
Wolff transitioned to car racing in 2001, starting with the Formula Renault series. Over the next few years, she competed in various championships, including the British Formula 3 Championship and the Formula Renault UK Championship. In 2006, she joined the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters), racing for Mercedes-Benz. Despite fierce competition and a challenging environment, Wolff made her mark, becoming a respected driver in the series.
Breaking Barriers in Formula 1
In 2012, Wolff achieved a significant milestone by becoming a development driver for the Williams Formula 1 team. This role marked the first time in over two decades that a woman had taken on such a position in Formula 1. Wolff’s participation in testing sessions in 2014 and 2015 was groundbreaking, showcasing her skills on a global platform and challenging the male-dominated status quo of the sport. Her efforts culminated in her driving in the British Grand Prix practice session in 2014, making her the first woman in 22 years to participate in a Formula 1 race weekend.
Endless Advocacy for Women in Motorsport
Beyond her achievements on the track, Susie Wolff has been a vocal advocate for women in motorsport. She co-founded the “Dare to be Different” initiative in 2016, aimed at inspiring, connecting, and celebrating women in all aspects of motorsport. The initiative provides a platform for young girls to engage with motorsport through events, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs. In 2019, “Dare to be Different” merged with the FIA’s Girls on Track program, further expanding its reach and impact.
Shining as Team Principal
In 2018, Wolff took on the role of Team Principal for the Venturi Formula E team. Under her leadership, the team saw significant improvements, culminating in a second-place finish in the 2018-2019 season. Her role as a leader in a major motorsport team underscores her influence and capability in a domain traditionally dominated by men.
A New Way Of Affirming Feminism in Sports
Susie Wolff’s career is a testament to her resilience and determination. She has consistently used her platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for gender equality. Wolff’s advocacy extends beyond motorsport; she speaks at various conferences and events about the importance of diversity and inclusion in sports and other fields.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Wolff has received numerous accolades for her contributions to motorsport and gender equality, including being appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2017 for her services to women in sport.
Continuing the Work With The F1 Academy
Susie Wolff’s journey from a young karting enthusiast to a prominent figure in motorsport and feminism is inspirational. She has paved the way for future generations of female racers, proving that talent and determination can break through even the toughest barriers. Her ongoing work in promoting diversity and supporting women in motorsport continues to shape the landscape of the sport, ensuring that opportunities are available for all, regardless of gender through the F1 Academy and a resolutely more inclusive way to shape Grand Prix maps all over the world.
In a world where the representation of women in sports remains a challenge, Susie Wolff stands out as a beacon of progress and a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide. Her career and advocacy work exemplify the powerful impact one individual can have on advancing gender equality in traditionally male-dominated arenas.
Find all the information about the F1 Academy as well as results, the upcoming race schedule and more on the official F1 ACADEMY WEBSITE.
