Formula 1 | W Series: Hamilton deplores lack of opportunities

Lewis Hamilton appreciates that the W Series, the 100% women’s championship, is running on the sidelines of Formula 1 this year. The Mercedes F1 driver has already been seen trackside supporting them, but is disappointed that female entrants in this category don’t get more outlets.

“I have followed the W Series for the past few years and tried to get there because I wanted to meet these inspiring young women” explains Hamilton. « I’ve already watched their races between sessions, so I really wanted to go. »

« It’s great that we have the W Series, but as a sport we need to do a lot more for the young girls who are getting into the sport. For these women there is no progression from the W Series. . It’s been three years now. »

Jamie Chadwick is indeed the two-time defending champion, and she won a million dollars thanks to her 2021 title. But due to a lack of outlets, she signed up for a third season in the W Series.

The Briton unfortunately pays for an unsuccessful participation in the F3 Asian Championship, and that is why she returned to the W Series, a decision which had raised many criticisms against her.

Chadwick has a development role with Williams and has also driven in Extreme E, but Hamilton thinks the W Series should allow the drivers who shine there to progress and then be evaluated in a mixed field.

« When you win the W Series it has to go into F2, whether you get a place in F2 or any other championship, but we can definitely do a lot more to support these girls. »