F1 Academy: Susie Wolff Reveals "A Lot More To Come" For 2024
The first season of the F1 Academy, led by Susie Wolff, concluded successfully in Austin, marking a new chapter in motorsport history. With the inaugural season wrapped up, Wolff expressed satisfaction but acknowledged the need for further development as the series prepares for its second season.
Key Takeaways:
- Inaugural Season Success: The F1 Academy's first season, won by Marta García, was a triumph with seven victories in a 21-race season. Despite some challenges, the season proceeded smoothly, signalling a promising start for the new competition.
- Enhanced Collaboration in 2024: The upcoming season is set to witness a deeper integration with Formula 1. Teams like McLaren, Aston Martin, and Williams have already committed drivers and liveries.
- Wolff's Vision for Future Growth: Wolff emphasised the importance of this platform not just for showcasing female talent but also for fostering their development and progression in motorsport, aiming to inspire future generations.
Reflecting on the F1 Academy's inaugural year, Susie Wolff, in an interview with PlanetF1.com, shared:
"I think we established a lot in one year.
"But like I said in Austin, it’s just the beginning. We’ve got next year to look forward to racing with F1, the involvement of the F1 teams. So I think we’re off to a good start, but there’s a lot more to come."
Wolff's vision for the F1 Academy extends beyond merely showcasing talent. She stressed the importance of progression, hoping to see the F1 Academy's drivers advance in their racing careers.
"It was vitally important and was really encouraging to see so much support from the paddock," Wolff added.
"In the end, it’s the first time it’s ever happened that the F1 teams have ever given their liveries to another series, so we feel very honoured."
F1 Academy Press Image
The F1 Academy's integration with Formula 1 represents a significant milestone. The commitment from F1 teams, evident through their allocation of drivers and liveries, marks a new era of collaboration and support for female talent in motorsport. As Wolff puts it:
"I want to see our drivers progressing. That’s vital for me, this is not just a platform to get lots of female talent out there. It’s a platform to also aid progression."
As the F1 Academy looks to its second season, the foundations laid in its inaugural year promise a brighter, more inclusive future for motorsport. With a blend of new challenges and opportunities, the F1 Academy is poised to continue its journey, inspiring a new generation of female racers.