F1 Academy Managing Director Susie Wolff has responded to “baseless allegations” following news of an FIA investigation into her and husband Toto Wolff, amid claims of a conflict of interest.
Rival team principals have allegedly complained that Mercedes Team Boss Toto Wolff is privy to confidential information held by Formula One Management (FOM), which Susie receives access to.
Formula 1 and Mercedes have categorically denied the claims and Susie Wolff also made a lengthy statement.
“I am deeply insulted but sadly unsurprised by the public allegations that have been made this evening,” the former Team Principal and CEO of the Venturi Formula E team wrote on Tuesday.
“It is disheartening that my integrity is being called into question in such a manner, especially when it seems to be rooted in intimidatory and misogynistic behaviour, and focussed on my marital status rather than my abilities.
“Throughout my career in motorsport, I have encountered and overcome numerous obstacles and I refuse to let these baseless allegations overshadow my dedication and passion for F1 Academy.
“As a woman in this sport, I have faced my fair hair of challenges but my commitment to breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations to succeed remains unwavering.
“In the strongest possible terms, I reject these allegations.”
Wolff has risen to a high standing in the world of motorsport, with her position at F1 Academy cementing her place as an inspiration for girls and women of all ages looking to pursue a career in racing.
Her driving career saw Wolff compete in Formula Renault and DTM, before becoming the first woman in 22 years to take part in a Formula 1 weekend with a practice outing for Williams at the 2014 British Grand Prix.
Wolff also had another practice outing for Williams at the 2014 German Grand Prix, acquitting herself well with a 15th-place finish in that weekend’s FP1 session.
Following a retirement from racing in 2015, Wolff went on to found the Dare To Be Different initiative in 2016, aimed at inspiring and encouraging female participation in all levels and and roles within motorsport.
A year later, Wolff was awarded an MBE for services and contribution to women in sport and today spearheads the F1 Academy, which in 2024 will have every single round feature on the F1 support package, with all 10 F1 teams supporting drivers in the series.
