By: Women’s Fitness Asia
Jessica Hawkins commands attention on and off the racetrack. As Aston Martin’s F1 Academy head, a professional racing driver, and a Hollywood stunt performer, she has carved an exceptional path in the male-dominated world of motorsports. Her journey is a story of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering belief that women belong in the driver’s seat—literally and metaphorically.
A Career Fueled by Passion and Precision
Hawkins’ journey began with an innocent curiosity sparked by the sight of a kart circuit. A young Jessica begged her father to let her have a go, igniting a love for racing that has only grown stronger over the years. From her debut in British Formula Ford at Silverstone in 2014, where she achieved two top-ten finishes, to her recent lap-testing of Aston Martin’s AMR21 Formula 1 car in 2023, Hawkins has continuously pushed the boundaries of what is possible.
Her work as a stunt driver in Hollywood blockbusters such as James Bond’s No Time to Die and touring Europe with Fast and Furious Live further highlights her versatility and courage. “Every time I’ve been knocked back, I’ve dusted myself down and gone again,” Hawkins reflects, a sentiment that defines her approach to every challenge.
Driving Change Through the F1 Academy
As the head of Aston Martin’s F1 Academy, Hawkins is paving the way for young female talent in motorsport. Partnering with promising drivers like Tina Hausmann, Hawkins sees the Academy as an opportunity that she could only dream of at the start of her career.
“Opportunities like this weren’t around when I was younger,” Hawkins says. “The F1 Academy is groundbreaking—it’s the only Formula 4 championship aligned with Formula 1, providing young drivers with invaluable exposure and experience.”
For Hawkins, mentoring the next generation is as rewarding as her personal achievements. “Younger drivers now have paths that didn’t exist for my generation. Watching them thrive is one of the most fulfilling parts of my role.”
Championing Equality in Motorsport
Despite the challenges of limited funding and societal bias, Hawkins believes her gender has never held her back. “I’ve faced the same challenges male drivers have—budget constraints, competition—but the landscape has improved significantly,” she shares.
“Equality in motorsport has come a long way, but we need to keep pushing. Women are as capable as men, and the opportunities should reflect that.”
As one of the few women to test an F1 car since 2018, Hawkins is acutely aware of her role in inspiring others. “It’s crucial for young girls to see themselves represented. The more female ambassadors we have, the more likely we’ll see a new generation of Jessicas and Tinas take to the track.”
Balancing Adrenaline and Advocacy
Hawkins’ accomplishments extend beyond the racetrack. Her Guinness World Record for the fastest lawnmower—achieving 150.99 mph—is a testament to her adventurous spirit and willingness to embrace the unconventional.
From hot laps with Aston Martin to her iconic F1 test at the Hungaroring, Hawkins’ career is a kaleidoscope of high-speed thrills and moments of personal triumph. Yet she remains focused on her mission to advocate for women in motorsport, ensuring that the road she paved is smoother for those who follow.
The Formula for Success
Success in motorsport, Hawkins notes, requires a unique combination of talent, mental and physical strength, and a supportive team. “You need to be precise, forward-thinking, and always willing to learn. If you’re missing even one piece of the puzzle, it’s hard to make it far.”
Despite her accomplishments, Hawkins often takes a step back to appreciate how far she’s come. “I sometimes forget the cool things I’ve done,” she says with a laugh.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As she continues her career, Hawkins’ goals extend beyond personal milestones. She aims to inspire and mentor young drivers while advocating for gender equality in motorsport. “We’ve come so far,” she reflects, “but there’s still work to be done.”
Hawkins’ legacy will undoubtedly be one of resilience and relentless ambition. The road ahead is hers to conquer, and she’s driving full speed into a future where everyone has a chance to race.
