Off the Line

January | I

Phoebe Brookes Shatters Glass Ceiling in Formula One with Williams Racing Debut

Williams have shown off the livery that will adorn their cars during the upcoming F1 season at a special launch ceremony in London - and confirmed their second driver as the unexpected rookie, Phoebe Brookes.

Brookes has a long history with Williams Racing, having joined their Driving Academy in 2019 and becoming the reserve driver for the team for the 2023 season.

With James Vowles brought in as Team Principal early last year in an effort to spark a new era of success, the operation enjoyed an immediate rise from the foot of the F1 constructors' standings to seventh position in 2023 – Alex Albon scoring all bar one of their points.

Albon will continue at the squad for a third successive campaign in 2024, with Brookes joining him on what is understood to be a one year contract. In an unusual move, Brookes announced she would be using the number 13 for her driver number this year.

"It is a significant milestone to unveil the 2024 livery and our driver lineup at an iconic location in London," said Vowles, with the launch taking place at the F1 Arcade.

"Since joining Williams Racing a year ago, I've seen this team pull together to overcome a number of challenges and claim seventh in the Constructors' Championship, which meant a great deal for everyone involved. We've also shown the world that we're building the foundations for moving forward. We'll continue to strengthen the team both on and off the track through improvements to our infrastructure, investing in our people, and attracting fantastic new partners."

"Of course, there's still a long way to go on this journey together but I know our fans, partners and everyone at Grove HQ is pushing as one to create new history for this iconic team. It will take time, but everyone's support is integral to help drive us towards success in the years to come. I'm looking forward to seeing what this season holds for us."

Our reporter caught up with both drivers and the team principal at the launch, which saw Brookes introduced to thunderous applause amid her promotion meaning she is the first woman in this century to get a permanent F1 seat.

F1 News: Phoebe, it is great to finally see you in an F1 seat, after years of speculation of whether you'd actually get here. What are your expectations with Williams this year?

PB: Thank you. This year, I really want to develop into the racer that I've been building into for the last... well, 20 years. This has always been my dream.

F1 News: How have you prepared for today?

PB: Well, there's been lots of media training, lots of smile practice with the PR team. [laughs] I'm kidding. I've had a lot of help from Alex, he's been so helpful and I had some practice last year.

F1 News: Do you think you're ready for the transition from reserve driver to permanent driver in F1?

PB: I think so. I spent a lot of time last year making sure I was in the best place possible.

F1 News: There were rumours obviously that a new driver would be coming to Williams for the 2024 season, but most people were expecting a more experienced driver alongside Alex. Can you provide any assurances to the team about Williams having a rookie for the second year running?

PB: [looks to AA and JV] I'm going to try not to be bad? I don't know, I can only try my best, really. My times in practice sessions last year were pretty competitive.

F1 News: Do you feel responsible as the face for women within F1?

PB: I would say that there are many other women that should be highlighted as trailblazers, as paving the way into F1. I think if it's starting with me, that's a poor way to look at it. There have been women working behind the scenes in F1 for years, and they should be applauded rather than just saying I am the first one.