Sophia Flörsch: “Driving is my life”

How do you approach the idea of ​​becoming the first woman to drive in FIA F3 ?

Honestly, being in FIA F3 was above all the objective for this year. Being the first woman to do it, obviously, is something special. But what makes me the happiest is to have fulfilled a set objective: simply to follow the same path as my male comrades. I would place more importance on becoming the first to win races or championships.

Is it difficult to be a woman in this industry?

You have to prove that you are going fast to be respected by others, but it's the same for everyone I think. I would say that the most difficult thing for a woman is to obtain the same possibilities of financing and sponsors.

2020 style – Do you like it? @CamposRacing @ FIAFormula3 @hrxbrand #sophia #racegirl #NeuesProfilbild pic.twitter.com/k98ZVzxPcc

— Sophia Floersch (@SophiaFloersch) March 11, 2020

Why ?

Because no woman has ever won F1 For example. So subconsciously, no one thinks that a woman can be fast. There's a lot of money at stake, and some sponsors don't want to take the risk of betting on women because they haven't really had any examples in the past.

Do male pilots treat you the same as they do each other?

I think yes. At this level, there is no problem. Then you know, they have known me for several years. Maybe it's just more boring for them if I'm in front (laughs).

This season, you will discover Pirelli tires and DRS. This is going to be a lot to take in...

Yes it is certain. During the Bahrain tests (early March, editor's note), I learned a lot about the tires and the car in general. DRS is super cool. It will allow us to overtake more easily in the race. I also discovered the Pirellis. In qualifying, you really have to make the most of a lap and it's very exciting.

What also changes is that the car is faster than the one I had in F3 Regional last year. I like the maneuverability of the steering and the power you have. In any case, we have made good progress with the team, but we will have to wait for the first qualification in Bahrain (March 20. Editor's note) to know where we really are.

How did your integration at Campos go?

I am very happy to be in this team. She helps me a lot. I get along very well with my engineer and my teammates. We have the same goal: to achieve the best possible performances. There is no more…

Are you able to get by in Spanish a little?

(Laughs). Ooh there! Let's say it could be better. I learned the basics at school. I hope I will have improved by the end of the season!

18 months ago, you knew a terrible accident in Macau. Is signing in F3 a little revenge?

Um, not really. You know, right after the crash, it was clear very quickly in my head: I wanted to drive again. That's what I like the most. Driving is my life. I was only focused on getting back as quickly as possible.

What are your goals this season?

I'm a rookie, it's my first season in FIA F3. The objective will above all be to learn, have fun and progress. If I had to set myself a numerical objective, it would be to make as many Top 10s as possible. This would bode well for the following season, since my objective is to still be in F3 next season to try to fight for the championship.

You will also be at the start of the 24 Hours of Le Mans this season…

It's a dream come true! For any racing driver, doing the 24 Hours of Le Mans at least once in their life is an accomplishment. I'm going to do it at 19, thanks to Richard Mille Racing, and with two other women. It's going to be amazing. The cars are super fast.

I can't wait, even if we'll have to prepare because the racesEndurance represent something new for me. Le Mans will not only be a highlight of my season, but of my entire career. It's one of the greatest races of all time.

Is the final goal still F1?

My main goal is to be in the best categories in motorsport. Currently, it's F1. I don't know what it will be like in 5 years. Maybe the Formula E will be the new F1. My desire is to ride with the best in this sport.