The new Formula One (F1) Academy series, which was designed to promote female drivers and inspire the next generation, has come under criticism after it was revealed that its races would not be broadcast live. The seven-round, 21-race competition, which is aimed at providing “the best opportunities to reach their potential” to aspiring female drivers, will open with three races this weekend at Austria’s Red Bull Ring. While some see the lack of live or full-race footage, as a bad sign for F1’s commitment to its stated ambitions, including motorsport’s promotion group Females in Motorsport, others believe that the initial lack of footage could be a welcome move to help the young drivers to adjust to the high pressure of the event. Bianca Bustamante, one of the 15 drivers on the grid, understands why fans are disappointed, but she believes that the Academy’s focus on driver development and its prioritisation of driver performance and mental health is what will make it inspiring to the next generation. F1 Academy plans to release a 15-minute round-by-round highlights programme to broadcasters, and promised extensive live coverage on its platforms, including social media.
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