Formula 1 Sees Significant Rise in Female Fan Engagement and Participation

The Growing Power of Female Fans in Formula 1

Female engagement in Formula 1 has seen a significant increase globally, with new fans, many of whom are women, contributing to record attendance numbers.

Liv Tyler, a sports content creator focusing on Formula 1 and AFL, began watching Formula 1's "Drive to Survive" during the COVID-19 pandemic. She observed a heavily male-dominated sport initially but found an online community of women discussing it, which led to friendships and shared race attendance.

Liv Tyler observed a heavily male-dominated sport initially but found an online community of women discussing it, which led to friendships and shared race attendance.

The Australian Grand Prix recorded an impressive 465,498 attendees last year, with 45 percent identifying as female. The event aims for an even 50:50 gender split this year, with day one attendance at 86,210, an increase from 72,056 in 2025. Globally, women constituted 42 percent of F1 fans in 2025, up from 37 percent in 2018.

Elle Chilton, co-host of the Formation F1 podcast, has observed a distinct shift, noting increased female fan engagement with race storylines and driver personalities.

She also highlighted proactive efforts by the Australian Grand Prix Corporation to connect with women, including inviting them to events like 'Glamour on the Grid' to interview key figures such as Nicole Piastri and Chloe Stroll.

Elle Chilton noted increased female fan engagement with race storylines and driver personalities, alongside targeted efforts by the Australian Grand Prix Corporation to engage with women.

Historically, women have been involved in motorsport since its inception, proving their mettle on and off the track. Figures like Hélène van Zuylen and Camille du Gast competed in early races, challenging norms.

Lella Lombardi holds a unique place in history, becoming the first and only woman to score points in a Formula 1 Grand Prix in 1975.

Currently, women represent over 15 percent of motorsport license holders in Australia, and this participation is on the rise. This growth is significantly fueled by dedicated initiatives such as FIA Girls on Track and the Formula 1 Academy.

The F1 Academy series has been instrumental in providing experience for young women in professional teams, including Australian teenagers Joanne Ciconte and Aiva Anagnostiadis in 2025. Ciconte is further scheduled to race in the Kyojo Cup in Japan.

Margot Foster, vice-president of Motorsport Australia, emphasizes the crucial need to clarify the diverse range of available roles for women in the sport beyond just driving, citing examples like stewarding.

Sophie Wisely, a graduate of the Girls on Track program, affirmed that increased female interest post-"Drive to Survive" has prompted Formula 1 to adapt and recognize the significant economic value and power of female fans.