In a remarkable display of empowerment and camaraderie, the F1 Academy drivers gathered for an intimate dinner at The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, just hours after their initial practice laps at the Miami International Autodrome. This event, hosted by Vanity Fair’s Editor in Chief Radhika Jones and Ritz-Carlton Global Brand Leader Jamie Kerr, was not just a celebration of racing but a tribute to the women who are breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
A night of elegance and inspiration
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Miami, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. The dinner took place on the patio of Zaytinya, a mezze-style restaurant renowned for its Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese-inspired cuisine, helmed by the acclaimed chef José Andrés. The menu featured exquisite dishes, including sea scallops with dill yogurt and shish taouk, setting the stage for an evening of celebration and reflection.
“Miami is obviously just such a cool place to have this sort of event,” said driver Courtney Crone, highlighting the unique blend of thrilling racing and vibrant culture that the city offers. The F1 Academy, launched in 2023, aims to prepare female drivers for higher levels of competition, including the prestigious Formula 1, which has historically seen limited female representation.
Fostering a new generation of female racers
The F1 Academy is a groundbreaking initiative that allows women aged 16 to 25 to compete in a supportive environment, fostering talent and ambition. Crone expressed her pride in being one of the 18 selected drivers, emphasizing the significance of this opportunity. “Just knowing that you’re one of the 18 girls on the grid is a huge accomplishment itself,” she remarked, acknowledging the competitive nature of the selection process.
In addition to the thrilling races, the evening also featured the premiere of “F1: The Academy,” a new docuseries produced by Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine. This series promises to shine a spotlight on the journeys of these remarkable women as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of the racing world. Driver Lia Block shared her excitement about the series, noting the extensive filming that captured the essence of their experiences.
A partnership that champions progress
The Ritz-Carlton’s partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team underscores its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in motorsport. Jamie Kerr articulated the hotel’s dedication to supporting initiatives that celebrate the evolution of the sport, stating, “Formula 1 has long been a symbol of precision, performance, and progress—values that align naturally with The Ritz-Carlton.” This collaboration not only enhances the visibility of women in racing but also fosters a community that champions their achievements.
As the evening drew to a close, the camaraderie among the drivers and guests was palpable. The event served as a reminder of the strides being made in women’s sports and the importance of creating platforms that empower female athletes. With the Miami Grand Prix as a backdrop, this gathering was more than just a dinner; it was a celebration of resilience, ambition, and the bright future of women in motorsport.
