F1 Academy graduates face challenges in securing racing opportunities

Maya Weug, the first female member of Ferrari’s young driver program, expressed her disappointment after struggling to secure a racing spot following her time in F1 Academy. Despite finishing as a runner-up in 2025, Weug has only managed two races in an amateur series this year. Other graduates, like Marta García, have also faced long absences from racing, highlighting ongoing difficulties for women seeking sponsorships and competitive opportunities after the academy. F1 Academy’s managing director Susie Wolff acknowledged the challenges as the series aims to support female drivers in motorsports. The lack of visibility and spiraling costs continue to hinder progress for women at various levels of motorsports.

• 10:54 AMYahoo Sports — Female racers struggle for sponsors and track time after leaving F1's women-only series