Day one will focus on physical and cognitive assessments conducted by More than EqualConcludes with six hours of on-track testing in F1 Academy machinery
F1 Academy will stage its first-ever rookie test ahead of the 2026 season in a move designed to evaluate the next generation of female racing talent.
The two-day test will take place on 17th to 18th September at Circuito de Navarra in Spain, running alongside official testing for the all-female series, and will feature 18 drivers aged between 15 and 21.
It is intended to offer a tangible opportunity for all entrants to prove they deserve a chance to compete full-time in the series next season.
Day one will see participants immersed in an F1 Academy team, observing briefings and engineering sessions while undertaking physical and cognitive assessments led by More than Equal, an independent global motorsport initiative formed to find and develop the first female Formula One world champion.
The assessments will then be used to provide a detailed overview of a driver’s strengths and areas to improve, as well as contributing to a wider evidence base on female driver performance. The 2025 F1 Academy grid will also take part in the assessments.
The test will conclude with six hours of on-track testing in F1 Academy machinery on the second day.
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“This is a landmark moment, not just for F1 Academy as a series, but for our sport,” said Susie Wolff, managing director of F1 Academy.
“Over the past three years, the global female talent pool has grown stronger and more competitive, and our priority is to ensure that we have the best possible drivers competing in F1 Academy.
“With this test, we are providing eighteen of the most promising talents with an equitable platform for them to demonstrate that they deserve a seat on an F1 Academy grid.”
Tom Stanton, chief executive of More than Equal, added: “Supporting F1 Academy in delivering important physical and cognitive assessments at this rookie test reflects our shared mission to ensure that the most talented female drivers are given the tools, data, and opportunities they need to succeed.
“By combining research-led insights with real track experience, we are not only helping individual drivers unlock their potential but also building the knowledge base required to strengthen the entire pipeline of female talent in motorsport. This initiative is a landmark moment in creating a level playing field for the next generation.”