This young Filipina racing driver becomes the first woman to sign with global brand McLaren and is set to drive with ART Grand Prix in the 2024 F1 Academy
Bianca Bustamante shared with Tatler before that motorsport has been a massive part of her life since she was young. “It is such a dream. Racing is an expensive sport, and since I come from a middle-class family in the Philippines, I thought none of it would ever be possible for me,” she says. Since then, she has been breaking barriers. Now, she continues to achieve more feats than any Filipino.
Recently, Bustmante has signed with the McLaren Driver Development programme for the upcoming 2024 F1 Academy season. She is set to drive for the ART Grand Prix in her second year in the all-women junior formula category, proudly representing McLaren Racing and sporting their iconic “Papaya” team livery throughout the year.
In case you missed it: Accelerating to greatness: Who is Bianca Bustamante?
McLaren Racing is an institution known for nurturing emerging talent, urging them to excel in the highest echelons of motorsport. The team has a proven track record in this area; 20 per cent of the current Formula 1 grid, which includes Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris, started their careers with the storied England-based team.
As motorsport constantly evolves, McLaren upholds a fundamental value of embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity within their team as advocates for equal opportunities for women. “I’m pleased that Bianca is joining our programme,” says Emanuele Pirro, director at McLaren Racing Driver Development. “She’s a promising young talent with a brilliant work ethic and is aligned closely with our team’s values. We’re excited for Bianca to represent the F1 Academy series team and look forward to seeing her race in papaya (the traditional colour of McLaren) in 2024.”
