Argomenti trattati
In the high-octane world of motorsport, the journey to the Formula 1 grid is paved with the efforts of thousands—up to 2,000 people, to be exact. Yet, amidst this massive workforce, only a mere 10% are women. This stark reality raises an important question: is the motorsport industry truly on the road to achieving gender balance? With initiatives like those from Lotus and Motorsport UK, there’s hope on the horizon, but the path remains challenging.
The changing landscape of motorsport
Lotus, a name synonymous with speed and innovation, has been at the forefront of this change. Located in Hethel, Norfolk, the company has taken steps to open its doors to a new generation of aspiring motorsport enthusiasts, particularly young women. Founded in the early 1950s by the visionary engineer Colin Chapman, Lotus has seen its share of transformations. Recently, it hosted a two-day event organized by Girls on Track, designed to expose girls and women to the myriad of roles available in this thrilling industry.
Sheena Valentina, who has been a part of the Lotus team for four years, describes her position as “an amazing job.” However, she acknowledges the gender disparity that still exists. “We are trying to get to a point where females feel comfortable here. I think we are 100% getting there,” she states, highlighting the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
Breaking barriers: the new generation
While the industry has a long way to go, progress is evident. The gender pay gap at Lotus has been impressively reduced to just 0.01%, a statistic that Valentina proudly shares. Her hope is to create an environment where young girls, including her own daughter, can envision themselves in roles within motorsport. For 11-year-old Harriet, being the child of a motorsport enthusiast has ignited her passion for racing. “I like seeing the cars go really fast across the race track,” she says, dreaming of one day taking the wheel herself.
Another young aspirant, Emily, also 11, has different ambitions. After touring the Lotus factory, she expressed a desire to work behind the scenes, emphasizing the critical role of car builders. “There wouldn’t be racing without the builders,” she remarked, pointing out the necessity of diverse roles within motorsport.
The importance of visibility
As Jenny Fletcher from Motorsport UK notes, exposing young girls to the various careers within motorsport is crucial. “You have to see it to believe that you can be it,” she asserts, underscoring the importance of representation. The Girls on Track initiative has been pivotal in showcasing the opportunities available, aiming to demonstrate that there is a place for everyone in the industry. With about 1,500 to 2,000 people working behind the scenes for a single Formula 1 team, the demand for talent across various fields—from engineering to mechanics—is immense.
This initiative isn’t just about driving fast cars; it’s about fostering a culture where women can thrive in every aspect of motorsport. The experience of attending events and engaging with professionals can ignite a spark in the next generation, encouraging them to pursue careers that may have seemed out of reach.
A future filled with potential
As the motorsport landscape continues to evolve, the stories of women like Valentina, Harriet, and Emily reflect a broader narrative of change. Each step taken toward inclusivity not only benefits the industry but also inspires young girls to dream bigger. The future of motorsport is not just about speed; it’s about collaboration, innovation, and breaking down barriers. With each new initiative, the hope is that more women will take their place in the fast-paced world of racing, paving the way for a more balanced and diverse industry.