The Documentary Podcast Women and the future of Formula 1
Mar 14, 2026
Rachel Robertson, a British F1 Academy driver aiming for the top of motorsport. Esme Kosterman, a Dutch newcomer with a karting past and single-seater ambitions. Alba Larsson, a Danish junior racer inspiring other women. They talk about the thrill of F1 cars, facing sexism in karting, balancing friendship with fierce on-track rivalry, and ambitions to reach higher levels of racing.
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Facing Early Sexism In Karting
- Esme recounts facing dismissal in early karting where boys told her 'it's not for girls' but she ignored them and persisted.
- Rachel and Alba note those attitudes happen less now, partly due to recent female role models like Susie Wolff.
How Alba Discovered Racing During Lockdown
- Alba fell into racing during the COVID lockdown after trying a go-kart and feeling a huge adrenaline rush.
- She progressed rapidly from casual driving to competing, then realized women like Susie Wolff made a pro career seem possible.
Esme's Childhood Swap From Dance To Karting
- Esme started karting at six after getting jealous of her brother and father who went every weekend to the track.
- Her switch from dancing to karting was family-driven and sparked a lifelong commitment to motorsport.