Abbi Pulling: Eight-year-old me would be gobsmacked

Like many drivers, securing and maintaining a steady flow of money and sponsors is what Pulling cites as the main barrier to her progression.

Despite the extra visibility the F1 Academy has given its drivers – with races held alongside F1 grands prix and broadcast live on Sky – Pulling says progress in securing financial backing has not necessarily made the same leaps.

“It’s so hard to get, but it’s not just me that struggles,” she says, adding many male drivers fail to progress for financial reasons.

“It’s becoming more and more a billionaire’s club and I think it’s quite sad. Because I think the focus on money ends up neglecting talent.”

Despite financial setbacks, Pulling says she’s happy with her current trajectory, and points out there are now more opportunities for women than ever before.

They include the F1 Academy, the FIA Girls on Track initiative, the all-female endurance race team the Iron Dames, and Formula E committing to offering testing opportunities for women.

“There’s such a positive atmosphere around women in motorsport,” says Pulling.

Asked whether her younger self would believe how far she’s come, she adds: “I think little eight-year-old me would have been absolutely gobsmacked.”