Maya Weug, a 16-year-old Dutch-Belgian racing driver, has recently made history by becoming the first female driver to join the prestigious Ferrari Driver Academy (FDA). Weug was selected from a group of four female drivers who took part in a scouting program organized by the FIA Girls on Track – Rising Stars initiative in 2020.

The FDA, established in 2009, is Ferrari’s young driver development program aimed at nurturing and supporting the next generation of racing talent. The academy provides young drivers with access to world-class coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities to advance their careers in motorsport. Joining the FDA is seen as a significant milestone for any young driver aspiring to compete at the highest levels of racing.

Weug’s selection comes after an intense evaluation process conducted by Ferrari, where she demonstrated her talent, determination, and potential to succeed in the highly competitive world of motorsport. With her admission to the FDA, Weug now has the chance to learn from some of the best in the business, including seasoned professionals and former Ferrari drivers.

In a statement following her selection, Weug expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the FDA. She also emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers for female drivers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Weug’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a significant step forward in promoting gender equality and diversity in motorsport.

Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto praised Weug’s talent and determination, stating that she has all the ingredients to succeed in racing. He emphasized Ferrari’s commitment to supporting young drivers, regardless of their gender, and expressed confidence in Weug’s potential to make a mark in the sport.

Weug’s inclusion in the FDA is a groundbreaking moment for women in motorsport and a positive sign of progress towards greater representation and diversity in the racing world. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young girls and aspiring racers, showing that with talent, hard work, and determination, anything is possible.

As Maya Weug embarks on her journey with the Ferrari Driver Academy, the motorsport community eagerly anticipates her future successes and the impact she will undoubtedly have on the sport. Weug’s historic achievement paves the way for more female drivers to follow in her footsteps and shatter stereotypes in the world of racing. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in pursuing one’s dreams, regardless of the obstacles in one’s path.