Carmen Jorda releases statement following "physical barrier" backlash

Carmen Jorda released a statement last night to soothe the backlash she received after making comments suggesting a "physical barrier" existed preventing women from being able to compete in Formula One.

Having been in Mexico City to test a Formula E car, Jorda spoke afterwards claiming that the electric cars were a better option for women as they were easier to driver due to the less demanding physical ability. Her comments taken by some to suggest that Formula One is an unobtainable goal for women in motorsport. Her comments drew extra attention due to her role on the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission.

Last night, Jorda issued a tweet with a written statement clarifying her comments and her "personal experience" in relation to her position on female drivers achieving an F1 drive.

"On Saturday, after testing a Formula E car before the Mexico City E-Prix, I spoke to several journalists about the experience," the statement reads. During one interview I was asked to compare driving a Formula E car to a Formula 1 car, and then specifically, whether Formula E is easier for women to compete in that Formula 1.

"Having some experience of both cars, I gave my personal opinion that driving a Formula E car presents less of a physical challenge than Formula 1, because of the lower downforce. I also referred to there being 'a physical issue' for women in Formula 1, something which has created considerable debate over the last few days - including from many prominent women within our sport.

"I would like to thank fellow drivers for sharing their opinions, and respect their views greatly. I am sorry if my comments appeared to speak for all women and created all confusion - as I was reflecting merely on my own personal experience.

"I never intended to discourage other women from competing at the pinnacle of our sport, or say that they physically cannot. My comments were purely a response to a direct question, asking 'do you think Formula E would be easier for women?'

"As a member of the FIA's Women in Motorsport Commission, I am committed to encouraging more women to become involved in our sport - both on and off the track - and celebrating those who are achieving great results.

"As such, I would like to extend my congratulations to Tatiana Calderon, who was yesterday announced as a Formula 1 test driver at Sauber. I hope that she can become the first woman in 41 years to start a race on the Formula 1 grid and wish her the very best of luck for the coming season.

"I wish all women in motorsport a happy International Women's Day for tomorrow."