Jamie Chadwick completes historic Williams F1 test: 'Best day of my life'

Taking part in a TPC test on Monday, Chadwick completed 32 laps at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimao, Portugal, and has now joined an exclusive list of women, including Wolff, Maria Theresa di Filippis and Lella Lombardi, to have driven in an F1 car.

Most recently, reigning F1 Academy champion Dorianne Pin took part in a similar test with Mercedes, running the Silver Arrows' 2021 car at Silverstone. Chadwick joins Pin, Jess Hawkins to complete F1 tests within the last eight years.

To get ready for the running at Portimão, Chadwick undertook a detailed programme including sim running, gym work, and a seat fitting at Williams’ Grove HQ, before getting out onto the track in Williams' best performing F1 car since 2017 - the FW47 secured an impressive three podiums on the way to a P5 Constructors' finish in 2025.

Chadwick, a team ambassador for Williams and F1 Academy advisor, reflected on the experience: "It was a phenomenal day and an incredible experience. Few things can prepare you for driving a Formula 1 car at speed around a track like Portimão, but it was everything I imagined and 10 times more. I’m incredibly grateful to Atlassian Williams F1 Team for this opportunity."

Harkening back to Wolff's test for Williams in 2015, Chadwick hopes her recent outing can inspire the next generation of young talent, labelling the experience as the "best day of my life so far."

The 28-year-old added: "I remember being young and watching Susie Wolff step into a Williams F1 car and how much that inspired my own journey. I’d love to be able to do the same for the next generation, and the experience I gained today will make a real difference both to my own racing and to what I can pass on to the drivers coming through.

Williams team principal James Vowles credited Chadwick, the world's most decorated female driver across a history-making 14-year career, as an "inspiration for millions," with her TPC test in Portimao serving as prove that women can compete at the very top level of motorsport.

Vowles added: "Jamie Chadwick is an inspiration for millions of women and girls who has broken records at every level, and she has thoroughly earned this F1 test opportunity with Atlassian Williams F1 Team.