McLaren Signs F1 Champion's Daughter, Expands Women's Driver Development Program
McLaren has announced the signing of Ella Hakkinen, daughter of two-time F1 champion Mika Hakkinen, and Ella Stevens to its driver development program. This move reinforces the team's commitment to creating pathways for women in motorsport and STEM careers. Ella Lloyd will also continue in the F1 Academy for McLaren, as the team expands its efforts to champion female talent in the sport.
McLaren has announced the expansion of its driver development program, signing Ella Hakkinen, daughter of two-time F1 champion Mika Hakkinen, and Ella Stevens. This move signifies McLaren's reinforced commitment to fostering female talent in motorsport and STEM fields, building pathways into careers often dominated by men.
Why it matters:
- McLaren's initiative is crucial for diversifying motorsport, addressing the long-standing gender imbalance within the sport's professional ranks.
- By investing in young female drivers like Hakkinen and Stevens, McLaren not only nurtures future talent but also champions inclusivity, setting a precedent for other F1 teams to follow.
- This expansion directly supports the growth of series like F1 Academy, providing a clear development path for aspiring female racers.
The Details:
- Ella Hakkinen Joins: The daughter of 1998 and 1999 F1 Drivers' Champion Mika Hakkinen, Ella Hakkinen, expressed her excitement about joining the program and learning from the team. This marks a significant step in her burgeoning motorsport career.
- Ella Stevens' Single-Seater Debut: Ella Stevens will make her single-seater debut in the 2026 F1 Academy season, driving the McLaren Oxagon car operated by Rodin Motorsport in collaboration with NEOM.
- Ella Lloyd Continues: Welsh driver Ella Lloyd, currently third in the F1 Academy standings with one victory and four podiums, will continue with McLaren and Rodin Motorsport for her second full year. She aims to contend for the championship in 2026.
- Commitment to Women in STEM: McLaren explicitly states it is "doubling down on its commitment to opening pathways into motorsport and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers for women" through this expansion.
What's next:
This strategic expansion by McLaren is expected to bolster the visibility and opportunities for women in motorsport. As these young talents progress through the ranks, their success will undoubtedly inspire more women to pursue careers in racing and related STEM fields. The continued support for drivers like Ella Lloyd in F1 Academy, alongside the introduction of new talents, reinforces McLaren's long-term vision for a more inclusive future in Formula 1.