The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship has highlighted new initiatives supporting women in motorsport to mark International Women’s Day 2026. The all-electric series says its long-term programme focuses on removing barriers, creating career pathways and expanding participation for women drivers, engineers and young STEM students across its global race markets.
Formula E and the FIA have already delivered two dedicated all-women test sessions, allowing 21 drivers to run the championship’s GEN3 Evo race car. The vehicle accelerates from 0–60 mph in 1.82 seconds and represents the current performance benchmark in the electric series.
The programme has already produced measurable outcomes. Six participants have since secured rookie or official development roles within Formula E teams. Four have progressed into permanent team positions.
The championship says the tests are designed not only to showcase talent but also to build a sustainable driver pathway. Support measures include engineering guidance, simulator access, future testing opportunities and structured driver coaching.
Alongside elite driver programmes, the championship continues to expand the FIA Girls on Track initiative across its race calendar.
Formula E plans to host the programme in every race market during the 2025/26 season. Since launching, it has reached more than 6,000 young women through STEM workshops, mentoring sessions and career insights events held at race venues.
Each event typically brings together up to 120 participants for hands-on sessions exploring engineering, sustainability and motorsport careers.
This educational focus mirrors wider industry efforts to broaden the talent pipeline. Tyre News recently examined how motorsport sustainability programmes are influencing tyre technology development, while another report explored electric racing’s role in accelerating EV innovation across the tyre sector.
Formula E and the FIA have also introduced policy changes designed to support long-term participation.
Ahead of the 2025/26 season, maternity and paternity pay will be excluded from the championship’s team cost cap. Officials say the move ensures teams can support staff without affecting competitive budgets.
The championship is also consulting with women working across sport and engineering to better understand structural challenges that limit progression.
Cara Pelchen, Vice President of Sporting at Formula E, said the programme aims to drive lasting change rather than short-term visibility.
“Our commitment at Formula E moves far beyond celebrating women on a single day. It is about creating lasting opportunities and breaking down barriers that have historically limited participation in motorsport.”
Looking ahead, technical developments are also being considered to improve accessibility across the sport.
The upcoming GEN4 car, scheduled for introduction in the 2026/27 season, will incorporate power steering. The change is intended to improve drivability and performance consistency for all drivers.
The series believes these combined measures (technical, educational and structural) will help broaden participation while strengthening the long-term talent pipeline in electric racing.
Further information on the global outreach programme can be found via the FIA’s Girls on Track initiative (external reference: https://www.fia.com/girls-track
For motorsport suppliers, including tyre manufacturers and technology partners, the shift signals how diversity programmes increasingly intersect with innovation, workforce development and the future of electric mobility.
Tagged with: Formula E, women in motorsport, electric racing, EV technology, FIA Girls on Track, motorsport diversity, EV innovation, racing tyres, STEM motorsport careers, electric mobility
Disclaimer: This content may include forward-looking statements. Views expressed are not verified or endorsed by Tyre News Media.
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