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A true trailblazer: How Abbi Pulling is on the track to an F1 role
In recent years, the Formula 1 world has focused on breaking down barriers for female drivers, and Abbi Pulling is fast emerging as one of these raw talents. At just 21 years old, Pulling has already proven herself as a skilled driver in Formula 4. The current F1 Academy championship leader has an opportunity to secure a seat in GB3 next year if she can wrap up the title, showing promise to become one of the few women to reach the top of the motorsport ladder: Formula 1. With her impressive career trajectory, it’s clear that Abbi Pulling is on the right track towards a role in Formula 1, and here’s why.
Earlier this year, Pulling became the first woman to win a British F4 race, triumphing at the iconic Brands Hatch. Most recently, the Brit topped the all-female Formula E test at the Jarama circuit in Madrid, lapping three-tenths faster than the highly-rated W series champion Jamie Chadwick. Williams-affiliated Chadwick is currently driving in INDY NXT, IndyCar's junior championship.
Pulling is no stranger to competition. Despite her young age, she joined the now-defunct W series in 2021, securing a podium at the season-ending Austin doubleheader. It provided her with exposure and a competitive platform to develop as a driver. In March 2022, Pulling was signed to Alpine's affiliate programme. In the same year, she also drove an F1 car before the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
A fresh presence in a male-dominated sport
Formula 1 has long been male-dominated, but Pulling represents a fresh wave of talent that could change this. While many female drivers have previously attempted to reach F1, Pulling is part of a new generation coming through a more supportive environment, thanks to initiatives like Susie Wolff's (The last woman to drive an F1 car in a competitive session at the 2014 German Grand Prix) F1 Academy, as well as the FIA's 'Girls on Track' program, Pulling is building both her profile and a robust support system that could help propel her into an F1 role. Of course, to say that Pulling will drive in F1 wouldn't be smart at the moment. Drivers who deserve to be in F1 will secure drives due to their talent and not their gender. However, it's worth understanding that Pulling is a role model, and will inspire those young girls who see themselves as a racing driver.
Versatility at a young age
Racing in junior categories like British F4 and the W Series has honed her racecraft, but she also possesses the mental resilience to withstand the pressure of high-stakes racing. The current F1 Academy leader may earn herself a GB3 (British Formula 3 championship variation) drive for 2025. At this level, she will be able to demonstrate her skill in a highly competitive environment with substantial differences from previous categories.
Getting to F1 is no easy feat. Of course, there are only 20 seats and immense competition. Even not as a full-time driver, there are possibilities for Pulling. A reserve, simulator or ambassadorial role with Alpine is an option. Pulling's path may not be linear, but with every race, she inches closer to an opportunity. In Abbi Pulling, we see a driver who embodies the qualities that F1 needs as it moves into a more inclusive and diverse future. She still has a long way to go, but one thing is clear: Pulling is closer to F1 than women have ever been in the last 30 years or so since Giovanna Amati in 1992. Her journey is one that fans, and those girls who aspire to be like her, will continue to watch closely.
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