Jessica Hawkins Makes History in Riyadh: Driving the AMR22 in Riyadh
History is in the making! Exciting news coming from Riyadh. Get ready for the exciting women’s drive on Saudi roads. Jessica Hawkins, the Aston Martin Driver Ambassador and Head of Racing F1 Academy has achieved a remarkable feat during a recent demonstration run in Riyadh. She became the first woman to drive a current generation ground effect Formula 1 car, specifically the AMR22 at the Riyadh Boulevard entertainment center.
“I can’t wait to see Jessica driving because it gives us more confidence that one day I could also be like Jess one day”, Sara a 14-year-old Saudi national expresses her excitement. Analysts believe that having Jessica behind the wheel will inspire everyone to see a female driver in the streets of Saudi driving a Formula 1 car, the fastest machine in the world.
An Event for a Cause
Jessica Hawkins was accompanied by F1 Academy mentee Tina Hausmann when she took the wheel of the AMR22. Jess highlighted her prowess behind the wheel in Riyadh. Besides, this specially organized event event also launched a new Aramco-supported karting initiative. The event aims to encourage Saudi women and girls to explore the world of motorsport. The presence of Fernando Alonso, a Formula 1 legend, added further prestige to the event.
Riyadh Night-time Thrills
Jessica described the Riyadh experience as unforgettable. “It was my first time driving the AMR22 in Saudi Arabia and at night,” she said. She was amazed by the combination of cutting-edge F1 cars and the shining Riyadh streets that created a magical atmosphere. She expressed her delight in collaborating with title partner Aramco, whose various projects inspire women and girls to embrace motorsport.
Jess Global Impact
Since her previous F1 test drive in Hungary last year, Jessica has received inquiries from women and girls worldwide, eager to learn how they can get involved in racing to make an impact. Jessica’s visibility becomes more critical as International Women’s Day approaches. She serves as a beacon, encouraging more females to pursue their passion for motorsport.
Aston Martin’s Perspective
Aston Martin Team Principal Mike Krack expressed his enthusiasm during the Saudi Arabian GP press conference. Seeing Hawkins behind the wheel of the AMR22—a current generation car—was a great moment that will inspire the young generation. Krack emphasized the event’s significance in inspiring young generations to join motorsports. Pertinently, a collaboration with Aramco further solidified the impact of this historic demo run.
Hawkins’ Future Endeavors
But Jessica Hawkins’ journey doesn’t end here. she will deepen her involvement with Aston Martin in 2024. An announcement confirmed that she will make her British GT Championship debut with Beechdean AMR. Competing in the brand-new Aston Martin Vantage GT3, Hawkins aims to secure the Silver-Am class title alongside co-driver and team owner Andrew Howard.
Jessica Hawkins’ F1 demo run in Riyadh transcends mere sport. The event symbolizes progress, empowerment and breaking barriers. The event is considered a historic one in Riyadh that will inspire the young Saudi generation. As we celebrate her achievements, let’s continue supporting women in motorsport and nurturing the next generation of racing talent.
