Jessica Hawkins gets chance from Aston Martin: F1 test done in Hungary

Jessica Hawkins, Team Driver Ambassador of Aston Martin - has completed her first Formula 1 test for the British formation. Last Thursday, a test day was organised by Aston Martin at the Hungaroring in Budapest. Hawkins was in action there with an AMR21. She shared the car with reserve driver Felipe Drugovich.

Hawkins has been with Aston Martin for two years and her simulator work also helps in the preparations for F1 Grands Prix. The 28-year-old British driver has been on the W Series podium before and has now been given the chance by Aston Martin to show her skills in a 2021 F1 car. No details on lap times have been disclosed.

Hawkins can't believe her luck

"I want to say a big thank you to everyone at AMF1 Team for having the trust in me, believing in me, and for giving me this opportunity," Hawkins said. "It’s taken me every bit of blood, sweat and tears to get here. When I first heard it might be a possibility, I could hardly believe it. I’ve had to keep it secret for months now – which was pretty hard! It’s been absolutely worth it and it’s given me really valuable insight."

She continues: "Nothing will compare to the acceleration and braking of a Formula One car and, having looked at the data, I’m really proud of my performance. Getting to drive the AMR21 has been a dream come true for me and one I’ve been ready to fulfil for a long time. I’ll keep pushing for more and, in the process, I want to inspire other women and let them know they should follow their dream no matter what it is.”

Krack praises Hawkins

Team boss Mike Krack also commented on Hawkins' F1 test: "This is a special moment – for both AMF1 Team and for Jessica, who is an important member of our driver squad. We were really impressed by Jessica’s preparation for the test – she worked incredibly hard with our simulator team and that made it an easy decision to put her in the AMR21. Jessica approached the opportunity with great maturity; she was up to speed quickly and found a nice rhythm. This has been a hugely significant moment in Jessica’s journey with AMF1 Team and I am pleased we could give her this next step in her development journey by testing a modern Formula 1 car.”