Formula E aims to have female drivers competing at the championship level within the next two to three years, according to chief executive Jeff Dodds. Speaking on Friday ahead of the season-ending races at London’s ExCel convention centre, Dodds highlighted the series’ commitment to fostering greater inclusivity in elite motorsport.
Dodds noted that while he believes men and women possess the capability to compete equally, current conditions in the sport remain unequal. To address this, the series plans to announce a substantial expansion of its existing women’s programme, which has previously focused on testing opportunities. The new initiative aims to create more pathways for women to gain track time and bridge the competitive gap.
Since its inception in 2014, Formula E has hosted three female competitors, including the most recent, Switzerland’s Simona de Silvestro in 2016. This figure represents one more than the total number of women to race in the 76-year history of the Formula One championship. For the past two years, the series has also facilitated a dedicated women’s test to provide drivers with experience in current machinery under race-standard conditions.
The success of this initiative relies on the cooperation of racing teams, many of which already include female drivers in their development squads. Dodds expressed optimism regarding team support, stating that they are prepared to take a larger step next season. He confirmed that the upcoming announcement will involve a significant financial investment to support these expanded opportunities.
The current weekend of racing marks a transition for the series as it prepares for the introduction of the faster, lighter Gen 4 car. Dodds described this upcoming phase as a major inflection point for the championship.
“It’s a massive moment for growth for us as we go through this period,” Dodds said. He emphasized that the new vehicle technology will represent a step-change in performance, elevating the series to a new level both on and off the track.
The announcement comes as the motorsport world marks 50 years since a woman last competed in a Formula One race. By integrating more women into the championship grid, Formula E hopes to set a new standard for gender representation in professional racing.
Dodds said that would not happen without the teams buying into the idea and creating opportunities.
“We’ll announce it shortly but it will be a big investment.”
