F1 ACADEMY announces landmark rookie test to drive forward series’ future talent

F1 ACADEMY has today announced that, following substantial global interest, 18 female drivers – all eligible to compete in 2026 – have been carefully selected to take part in the series’ first ever rookie test on September 17-18 at Circuito de Navarra.

Taking place alongside official testing, the rookie test has been designed to ensure that the best talent, from an ever-increasing global talent pool of female drivers, is selected to compete in F1 ACADEMY.

With all 18 drivers competing on the same track under identical conditions and equipment, the test offers a fair stage for the rookies to show they deserve a full-time seat or a Wild Card entry for the 2026 season.

On the first day, participants will be immersed within an F1 ACADEMY team during an official test day, where they will observe briefing and engineering sessions.

They will also participate in research-led physical and cognitive assessments delivered by the series’ Official Driver Performance & Research Partner, More than Equal, to support their individual development and progression.

The assessments, delivered by More Than Equal, will provide drivers with detailed insights into their performance, including strength, cognition, and endurance, and identify individual areas for growth while contributing to a wider evidence base on female driver performance.

The 2025 F1 ACADEMY grid will also take part in the assessments, with the findings set to inform long-term strategies to better support female drivers at every stage of their careers.

The two-day schedule will conclude with the participating drivers, aged 15-21, getting behind the wheel of F1 ACADEMY machinery with a total of six hours of testing available throughout the day.

Susie Wolff, Managing Director, F1 ACADEMY said: “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 18 of the most promising talents with an equitable platform for them to demonstrate that they deserve a seat on an F1 ACADEMY grid.”

Katie Denver, Performance & Talent Development Manager, F1 ACADEMY continued: “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.”

Tom Stanton, CEO, More than Equal, added: “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.”