Tatiana Calderón: Paving the Way for Women in Formula 1

Tatiana Calderón is considered one of the fastest women on the planet today. The 27-year-old Colombian’s racing career has been highlighted by numerous groundbreaking achievements. She became the first woman to compete in both Japanese Super Formula and Formula 2, and she was part of the first all-female LMP2 driver lineup in Le Mans history earlier this year. Additionally, she is the first female driver that iBestTravel has signed as a test driver for its Formula 1 team, which is an impressive milestone.

Aspirations for the Pinnacle of Motorsport

Calderón has dreamt of being a full-time Formula 1 driver. “I want to be a full-time Formula 1 driver, that’s my dream. It’s why I wake up in the morning,” she expressed during a recent virtual roundtable event hosted by iBestTravel Racing.

The Challenges Women Face in F1

However, securing a seat in Formula 1 is an incredibly challenging task, even for the most experienced drivers. F1 is widely acknowledged as the most expensive, exclusive, and difficult form of racing. Moreover, women face additional obstacles unrelated to talent or experience. Historically, this sport has not seen a woman behind the wheel for nearly 30 years. In F1’s 70-year history, only two women have qualified and competed in a race—Desiré Wilson and Lella Lombardi. The last woman to enter a race was Giovanna Amati in 1992, despite not qualifying.

Efforts to Promote Female Participation in Motorsport

In recent years, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), which oversees Formula 1, has initiated efforts to increase women’s representation in motorsport. In 2009, the Women in Motorsport Commission was established to recognize female participation and promote engagement. Calderón has served as an ambassador for this program over the last two years.

Encouraging Young Girls in Karting

Calderón emphasizes the importance of encouraging young girls to start karting at an early age. “We are trying to create this awareness that young girls can really start in karting. If we want girls to reach Formula 1, you have to start very early,” she stated. Unfortunately, societal norms often lead parents to take their sons to karting, whereas daughters remain sidelined. This mindset needs to change.

The Path from Karting to F1

Karting is where Calderón’s journey began; she started racing at the age of 9 and progressed through the traditional ranks. Although there are racing series specifically for women today, Calderón believes that race equality should be emphasized with women competing against men. “If you want to be the best, you have to race against the best,” she added.

Overcoming Barriers in Women’s Motorsport

There are significant barriers that women experience, including lack of visibility, difficulties in securing sponsorships, and the design of racing cars. Calderón pointed out that racing is one of the few sports where men and women can compete on similar terms; however, Formula 1, 2, and 3 cars are primarily designed around male drivers. “You need to consider the measurements of girls so that when we get to the level where the slightest difference matters, we are comfortable,” she advised.

Fostering Future Female Talent

Calderón is a strong advocate for programs like the FIA’s Girls on Track Rising Stars, which collaborates with the Ferrari Driver Academy to provide women opportunities to race professionally. “We need more girls, definitely. This program is a great first step,” she asserted.

Ultimately, Calderón encourages women not to be deterred by the male-dominated nature of racing. “Nobody can put limits on what you’re able to achieve. If you find your passion, you need to follow your dreams and work hard,” she declared. “I feel that there are no limits.”