One of the world's most decorated female racing drivers, Jamie Chadwick, has described testing a Formula 1 car as the highlight of her motorsport career. The 28-year-old Brit recently joined an exclusive list of women to have driven an F1 car, completing 32 laps at the Portimao circuit in Portugal, which is set to be part of the F1 calendar in 2027.

Chadwick first joined Formula 1 team Williams in 2019 as a development driver and has impressively won all three seasons of the all-female W Series. She also made history as the first female driver to win a road race in IndyCar's feeder series.

Reflecting on her experience, she stated, "In terms of a dream or a bucket list item, it's definitely the top. It was pretty surreal... the feeling you get from a car like that is pretty incredible."

To prepare, she practiced in a simulator and followed a rigorous gym program, focusing on neck strength. Chadwick remarked on the physical demands, saying, "You wake up the next morning like you've been in a fight with Mike Tyson. It feels like you've been beaten about a bit, but it's an incredible feeling."

Historically, 13 women have driven an F1 car, with only two having participated in a race. Maria Teresa de Filippis was the first in 1958, while Lella Lombardi became the only woman to score points in 1975. Susie Wolff marked a significant moment in 2014, driving a Williams car at the British Grand Prix.

Chadwick believes women are capable of competing in Formula 1 without a strict timeline, stating, "I definitely believe the talent is out there... and I'm excited." However, she acknowledges the fierce competition for seats, emphasizing that the path remains challenging for female drivers.

Chadwick's recent experience fuels her hope for more opportunities for women in the sport, as she aims for a potential race seat in the future.