Jamie Chadwick Makes History as First Female Hypercar Reserve Driver for 2026

Jamie Chadwick is set to break new ground in 2026, becoming the first female Hypercar reserve driver in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). The three-time W-Series champion will join Genesis Magma Racing, taking on significant development responsibilities alongside her new role. This landmark appointment follows her recent test at Magny-Cours, where she became only the second woman to drive a Hypercar class machine.

Why it matters:

• Chadwick's historic appointment as a Hypercar reserve driver is a significant step forward for female representation in top-tier motorsport, potentially paving the way for more women in leading roles.
• Her involvement in Genesis Magma Racing's development program for the GMR-001 Hypercar highlights a growing recognition of her talent and technical expertise beyond just racing.
• This role could serve as a crucial stepping stone towards a full-time Hypercar race seat, bringing her closer to her ultimate goal of competing at the highest levels of endurance racing.

The details:

• Historic Role: Chadwick will be the first female to serve as a Hypercar reserve driver in the World Endurance Championship for the 2026 season.
• Team Affiliation: She has teamed up with Genesis Magma Racing and will also take on enhanced development responsibilities for the GMR-001 Hypercar.
• Prior Experience: This follows her recent test at Magny-Cours, France, where she became only the second woman ever to drive a Hypercar class machine.
• F1 Punditry: The British driver will continue her role as an F1 pundit for Sky Sports alongside her new WEC commitments.
• Continued Racing: Chadwick will also maintain a racing program in 2026, with details to be announced at a later date.
• Recent Success: In 2024, she was part of the IDEC Sport team, which secured three wins and finished third overall in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS).
• Chadwick's Perspective: She expressed immense pride and excitement about her new role, emphasizing it as "another progression in my career" and a crucial step "closer to my ultimate goal" of top-tier racing.
• Development Benefits: Chadwick believes the extensive testing and collaboration with engineers in her development role will greatly benefit her racing in other categories.
• First Hypercar Test: She described her initial experience in the GMR-001 as "amazing," noting its impressive speed and the array of driver tools available.

What's next:

Chadwick's continued involvement in high-level motorsport, particularly in a developmental capacity for a Hypercar, positions her strongly for future opportunities in endurance racing. While her 2026 racing program is yet to be announced, this reserve role suggests a focused trajectory towards a full-time WEC drive. Her contributions to the development of the GMR-001 could prove invaluable for Genesis Magma Racing as they prepare for the competitive 2026 season, and her journey will undoubtedly inspire many aspiring female drivers.