Chadwick: Drives More Opportunities for Women in Motorsport

Jamie Chadwick: Driving Female Access to Motorsports

The prominent driver Jamie Chadwick is optimistic about the ongoing evolution of opportunities for women in motorsport, both on and off the track. Chadwick, a three-time W Series champion, is preparing to compete this weekend in the UK, marking the return of the European Le Mans Series to Silverstone after six years. As part of the scheduled activities, a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) workshop for girls from local primary schools will be held on Friday at the Silverstone Museum. In addition, they will have the opportunity to try out the Kart Silverstone facilities, which are scheduled to open at the end of this year. Young women will also be able to witness Chadwick, 27, during the first practice session on the track, corresponding to the penultimate round of the ELMC series. Chadwick, who recently expanded her all-female karting series to a junior category, hopes these events will serve as an inspiration for the next generation of drivers and engineers.

For me, when I was the only girl among hundreds of boys at my local karting track, it wasn’t the most welcoming environment at first, but that’s changing now.

Jamie Chadwick

Chadwick comments that interest in these events has increased significantly. Her karting series in the UK has exceeded expectations, seeking to expand and diversify perceptions about motorsport, showcasing the various opportunities available. More than 450 girls have participated in the Jamie Chadwick Series events. In 2024, Daytona experienced a 400% increase in female participation in casual sessions on its outdoor karting tracks. Chadwick adds that the industry is experiencing a major transformation, with a greater female presence in various roles, decreasing the male dominance that had been seen for so long. This encourages young women and transforms the fan base and the culture of the sport. The goal is to demonstrate the wide opportunities that exist in motorsports, beyond on-track driving, highlighting the various roles and important elements of the sport, providing girls with the opportunity to explore these possibilities.