Jessica Hawkins Defends Female Drivers’ Physical Readiness for F1 While Highlighting Junior Series Hurdles

Aston Martin Formula 1 ambassador Jessica Hawkins has asserted that female drivers possess the physical capability required for Formula 1, while noting that structural changes in junior categories like Formula 2 and Formula 3 might be necessary to ensure a level playing field.

During an appearance on the Road to Success podcast, the British driver reflected on her 2023 testing session in the Aston Martin AMR21 in Hungary. When addressed regarding the physical intensity of the sport, Hawkins dismissed the idea that strength is a barrier preventing women from competing at the highest level.

“I am absolutely convinced women are strong enough for Formula 1,” Hawkins remarked. “I could have completed the entire race distance if it weren’t for my neck fatigue.”

The 31-year-old noted that neck exhaustion is a common challenge for any driver transitioning into an F1 car without recent high-downforce single-seater experience, rather than a limitation specific to gender.

However, she identified the junior single-seater ladder as a potential obstacle. Unlike F1 cars, which feature power steering, F2 and F3 machinery lacks this assistance, making them exceptionally difficult to steer due to the physical demand.

Jessica Hawkins testing an Aston Martin AMR21

Photo by: Aston Martin Racing

When asked if adjustments are needed regarding the physical demands of F2 and F3 to support female progression, Hawkins suggested there might be a case for it. “Maybe. Because I think F2 is much more physical than Formula 1 in certain aspects. It may be less demanding on the neck, but more taxing in other areas.”

Hawkins also touched upon the intense leg strength required for F1 braking zones, comparing the experience to her current GT racing campaigns.

“I had no trouble with the brakes in the Formula 1 car,” she added. “I had no issues with brake pressure. In fact, I find the brake pressure in the GT cars I am currently racing to be more challenging than the F1 car.”

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