KARIN FINK & ESMEE KOSTERMAN Push F1 Academy’s STEM Mission Forward

September 6, 2025

by Mike Moore // from www.techradar.com

GRRL! SUMMARY:

KARIN FINK, F1 Academy’s commercial director, reveals how the women-only series is doing more than just racing – they’re actively building pathways into STEM careers while proving that strategic partnerships matter more than just logo placement. With backing from Tommy Hilfiger, Tag Heuer, and Charlotte Tilbury, the series is establishing credibility that goes beyond the track, creating what Fink calls “real value and relevance” in fields where women have been systematically underrepresented.
ESMEE KOSTERMAN delivered a standout 7th place finish at Zandvoort in a car that made a statement – featuring images of over 200 female role models and representing TeamViewer’s finding that 86% of women believe visible female leaders are crucial for workplace equality. Her performance wasn’t just about lap times; it was about proving that when you level the playing field with identical Formula 4-spec cars, talent rises to the top regardless of gender.
The series is capitalizing on Formula 1’s massive platform advantage – unlike other women’s sports that struggle to fill stadiums, F1 Academy gets to showcase on motorsport’s biggest stage. Fink acknowledges the long road ahead, noting that Formula 1’s 75-year male dominance won’t change overnight, but with open paddocks, the “Discover your Drive” program, and genuine support from F1 teams and drivers, they’re building the foundation for sustainable change rather than just making noise.