Wolff: 'I’m Not a Marketing Scheme for Williams'
Luke Smith, Motorsportstalk, Aug 20, 2014
Britain F1 GP Auto Racing AP
Susie Wolff has hit back at critics claiming that she is a “marketing scheme” for Williams because she is a woman.
The Scot became the first woman in 22 years to take part in an official grand prix weekend session earlier this year, taking part in practice for the British and German Grands Prix. At Hockenheim, she put in a very impressive display, finishing just two-tenths of a second shy of full-time driver Felipe Massa’s lap time.
Although Wolff’s future in F1 is not yet clear, she believes that Williams is the right place for her to be.
“So many people said that this is just a marketing scheme, but Sir Frank Williams [the team owner] would never put someone in his car if he didn’t believe that they are good enough,” Wolff told the official F1 website. “Frank came up to me after the sessions and said that he was really happy with my performance.
“I know when I’m not good enough I’m out, because my performance counts more than my gender does. They gave me the chance and we can be proud that we have achieved something special together.”
Wolff was also happy to give some advice to any younger women looking to make a career in motorsport.
“Go for it!” was her immediate answer. “Don’t let anything stop you from going for it. The good things in life are always hard to get, but if you really want it you will succeed no matter how many tough days there are along the road.
“Ride the wave in a world that is changing for the advantage of women.”
Wolff is not set to take part in any more practice sessions this season, but should be in the frame for more running with Williams in 2015 following a successful programme this year.