Chadwick's Maiden F1 Test 'Surreal' as Appreciation for F1 'Gone Through the Roof'

Jamie Chadwick described her maiden F1 test with Williams as 'surreal,' with her appreciation for the sport now 'gone through the roof.' The 28-year-old Briton completed 32 laps at Portimao in the team's 2025 car under TPC regulations.

Why it matters:

Chadwick becomes the first woman to test a Williams F1 car since Susie Wolff over a decade ago. It underscores Williams' commitment to giving female drivers a chance to experience modern F1 machinery, and it signals progress in bridging the gender gap in the sport.

The details:

• She told Sky Sports F1 the day 'went far too quick' and that the reality 'was what I expected times ten.'
• The Williams ambassador praised the car and circuit as 'phenomenal,' and said she was 'very, very grateful' to Williams for the opportunity.
• She recalled watching Susie Wolff's test 11 years ago, calling it 'surreal' to now be in that position herself.
• Other recent female tests include F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin, who drove Mercedes' W12 at Silverstone in April 2026, and Jessica Hawkins, who drove Aston Martin's 2021 car in 2023.

What's next:

With her ambassador role and this test, Chadwick could see more F1 opportunities. TPC sessions allow teams to evaluate drivers outside race weekends, strengthening her case for a future role in the sport.