W Series’ 2021 season kicks off this weekend as a support race for Formula 1’s Styrian Grand Prix, but why should you tune in, and why is this female-only motorsport series so important? Reigning champion Jamie Chadwick explains all – and we set out the series format, ones to watch, and more below.
The global pandemic nixed its return in 2020 but now, finally, W Series is primed for its second season with 18 female drivers (five reserves standing by) facing off for the 2021 title over eight rounds, beginning with a double-header at the Red Bull Ring.
W Series was not universally welcomed when it was announced, but Chadwick – also a Williams F1 development driver and Extreme E offroad racer – says the series plays a crucial role in encouraging and supporting women in motorsport.
“Aside from the criticism, in my opinion, W Series has single-handedly done more than anyone else to help women in motorsport,” she says. “I think whether you agree or not that it’s the right approach, it’s definitely professionalised women’s motorsport overnight.” —read more—
