
Maya Weug
Formula racing // Costa Blanca, Spain
It was so hard to overtake and stay ahead, so it was really a mind game.
Maya Weug made history as the first female driver to join the Ferrari Driver Academy after winning the FIA “Girls on Track – Rising Stars” programme in 2020.
EARLY YEARS
Born in Spain to a Dutch father and Belgian mother, Maya’s journey in motorsports began at age seven when she received a kart as a Christmas present. Her father, who karted as a hobby, played a significant role in introducing her to racing. Despite financial challenges, Maya’s family supported her passion, often traveling to races in a van with a second-hand chassis and cooking meals at the track.
EARLY SUCCESS
Maya’s talent became evident when she placed second in her first regional race, motivating her to train harder and aim for international competitions. In 2013, she began competing against older children in Spain, showcasing her determination. By 2015, she had become Vice Champion in the Spanish Karting Championship, and in 2016, she won the prestigious WSK Final Cup in the 60 Mini category, marking her breakthrough on the international stage.
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
- 2015: Vice Champion in the Spanish Karting Championship in the Alevin Class[1].
- 2016: Won the WSK Final Cup in the 60 Mini category[1][3].
- 2020: Won the FIA “Girls on Track – Rising Stars” programme, becoming the first female driver to join the Ferrari Driver Academy[3].
- 2021: Competed in Italian Formula 4, scoring three rookie podiums with Iron Lynx Motorsport Lab[3].
- 2022: Finished 14th overall in Italian Formula 4, with sixth place finishes at Imola and Misano[3].
- 2023: Achieved a rookie win at Spa-Francorchamps in Formula Regional European Championship, finishing third among rookies[3].
- 2024: Joined F1 Academy with Prema Racing representing Ferrari, securing six podiums in the first five rounds[5].
REPUTATION
Known for her competitive nature and resilience, Maya has established herself as a pioneering figure for women in motorsport. Her steady progress through karting to single-seaters demonstrates remarkable adaptability and determination. Teammates and competitors respect her methodical approach to racing development, while her coaches at the Ferrari Driver Academy highlight her technical understanding and commitment to improvement.
FUTURE GOALS/PLANS
Maya aims to become a professional Formula One driver, stating it would be “a dream come true.” Beyond driving, she envisions a long-term career in motorsport in some capacity, leveraging her experience and the prestigious backing of Ferrari to create pathways for future female racers in the sport.
References:
Maya Weug relishes the pressure of driving for Ferrari
Maya Weug becomes first female driver to earn a spot in the Ferrari Driver Academy
Maya Weug: How the FDA shaped her career, the decision to step back from FRECA and why F1 Academy matters
Rising Stars
(bio created: )
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