Abbi Pulling, the 2024 F1 Academy champion, expressed her desire to be eight years old again in order to take full advantage of the growing opportunities for young female drivers. While Pulling was 21 when she won the championship, the average age of racers in the all-female racing series equivalent to Formula 4-level competition has been decreasing. Joanne Ciconte raced at 16 in 2025, and Lisa Billard is currently competing at the same age. The average age of drivers in F1 Academy has dropped from 20.6 years in 2023 to 18.8 in 2026, indicating a trend towards younger competitors.
Pulling finds it exciting that the average age of drivers is getting lower, allowing racers to gain experience at a young age. She mentioned her own experience competing in W Series at 18 and 19, putting her on a big stage early in her career. Seeing younger girls now participating at the age of 15 or 16, Pulling expresses a wish to go back to being eight years old to take advantage of the opportunities available to young drivers.
After her championship win, Pulling graduated from F1 Academy and continued her racing career in the GB3 Championship. She currently serves as a rookie and simulator driver for the Nissan Formula E Team, appreciating the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a Formula E car through simulator training and rookie sessions.
The future looks promising for young female drivers in motorsport, with increasing opportunities and support from teams like Nissan. Pulling is optimistic about the direction the sport is heading and hopes that more female racers can break through in the male-dominated industry.
