Written by Sophie Harvey
F1 Academy’s Chloe Chambers and F3’s Sophia Floersch have each hit the track to test Formula 3 and Formula 2 machinery respectively, participating in an exclusive two-day test at Silverstone. Designed to define set-up regulations, the programme is part of the FIA’s mission to improve the accessibility of each series.
Hosted between July 12-13th, the test focused on a complete analysis of each suspension set-up utilised across the season, with an emphasis on keeping the steering effort below the FIA’s defined level.
Across the event, both drivers had ample opportunity to get accustomed to their new machinery. Floersch set a total of 96 laps at the wheel of the lastest F2 car, recently introduced for 2024. Driving a hybrid F3 2019 with modified components to mimic the nature of the incoming F3 2025, Chambers completed a total of 97 laps.
The pair spent their time experimenting with the set-ups on alternative tyre compounds and getting to grips with the car’s ergonomics, including braking, steering effort and positioning of the steering wheel.
Now, the FIA will use their feedback to outline the set-up regulations used in F2 and F3 teams in 2025.
Currently racing in FIA F3 with Van Amersfoort Racing, Floersch stated:
“The purpose of the test was for Chloe and me to try out the Formula 3 and Formula 2 cars respectively, in terms of the steering effort.”
“I think the biggest differences were the two steering racks and also the caster changes. The more caster you put, the heavier it gets. With the steering racks, to be honest, I preferred the harder one because it is a lot more direct and you can be a lot more aggressive on the high-speed corners, which I think is important in order to have downforce in the cars.”
“We also trialled different tyre compounds where the steering effort changes as well. We did a long run too, where it gets easier lap by lap. In the end I found a set-up that I liked, which was the right balance of effort, while also having good control of the car and ability to be aggressive and actually have confidence to push.”
Reflecting on the experience, Floersch expressed how important opportunities like this are:
"I think it is good to see that they are working on it and compare real life data to their simulations. I was really lucky and happy to be one of the drivers to get the chance to drive the F2 car for the first time.”
On the other side of the garage, Chambers took to the modified F3 car. Part of Haas’ driver development programme, the American currently races in F1 Academy with Campos Racing and secured her maiden win last time out in Barcelona.
“The purpose of the test was to get a feeling for the car and give my feedback on the handling,” said Chambers upon completing the test, “the steering weight, the balance, and other things that can be improved for the next generation.”
"I did a lot of laps in different conditions and on different tyres, so I am hopeful that my feedback and data will be helpful to make the cars as accessible as possible.”
Though, Chambers realises that there is a bigger picture, representing not just herself but the entire community of female drivers: "This is an important process to make our sport more accessible for everyone on the ladder to Formula 1. Of course this is only the beginning, but I think the test is a positive step and that we can make a big difference.”
The news comes off the back of a record weekend in Zandvoort for British F4 (an FIA-backed championship) — a total of eight female drivers hit the track, compared to the usual three. Whilst this was mostly due to F1 Academy’s upcoming round at the very same circuit, it is a reassuring sign nonetheless.
Knowing that the FIA is committed to inclusion and gender diversity within the feeder series is an incredibly positive step for women in motorsport. Although Floersch currently leads the way as the singular female entrant in F3, testing opportunities like this could be the catalyst to plenty more joining the series in the future.
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