It has been announced that Miki Koyama will participate in the Formula E women’s test with Lola Yamaha ABT. The test will take place at Valencia’s Ricardo Tormo circuit.
Miki Koyama has achieved great results in her career so far, becoming the first female racer to win the mixed single-seater FIA Championship and securing the 2022 Formula Regional Japan Championship title.
Miki Koyama, a member of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s driver development program, is currently competing in the Super GT Championship. He also competed in the W Series from 2019 to 2021, and recently won the ST-X class at the Suzuka round of the Super Endurance Race.
“We are very pleased to welcome Miki to the team. Our commitment to accelerating the next generation of motorsport is evidenced by our recent signing of Formula E rookie Zane Maroney. It’s not just about the technology, it’s about the drivers themselves. Providing more opportunities for women across the paddock is an important part of that vision,” said Till Bechtolsheimer, Chairman of Lola Cars. .
“Going into any season, all pre-season testing time is valuable, especially for new teams. We hope that Miki will make the most of this opportunity and not only demonstrate her abilities but We look forward to using her experience to help us achieve our development goals at this critical time for our team.”
Miki Koyama said: “Testing in Valencia was a great opportunity to experience the next generation Formula E car, make the most of our time in the car and also provide constructive feedback to the team for next season. I look forward to providing it.”
“Being part of such a forward-thinking initiative like an all-female driver test is exciting and provides a great platform to learn, excel and support the team’s growth.”
The session, the first of its kind in the FIA Championship, will take place during pre-season testing at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia on Thursday, November 7th. Each team must have at least one female driver in their car this season. The female driver-only session is aimed at providing a platform for elite drivers who may not have the opportunity to perform at this level.
Drivers will also take part in press conferences, briefings and interviews, raising their profile in elite motorsport and inspiring others from grassroots to professional levels.
Category: F1 / Formula E
Miki Koyama: Formula E’s Rising Star
In what has been heralded as a groundbreaking moment in motorsport—yes, you heard it right!—Miki Koyama is set to grease the wheels of destiny as she takes to the track for the Formula E women’s test with Lola Yamaha ABT at Valencia’s Ricardo Tormo circuit. If you think Formula E is just a glorified go-kart race with a side of sustainability, think again—this is serious business, folks!
Breaking Records and Barriers
Miki Koyama isn’t just a name; she’s a force to be reckoned with! Being the first female racer to win the mixed single-seater FIA Championship is no small feat. That’s like winning a rock-paper-scissors contest against men who think they are Michael Schumacher. And let’s not forget her crowning achievement of bagging the 2022 Formula Regional Japan Championship title. This woman should have her own museum dedicated to breaking records, with life-size statues made of gold!
Not Just a One-Trick Pony
Not only is Miki already a champion, but she is also a member of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s driver development program. Talk about putting the “electric” in “electricity!” She’s currently tearing up the track in the Super GT Championship, having previously competed in the W Series until 2021. She even snagged a win in the ST-X class at the Suzuka round of the Super Endurance Race! I mean, I can barely endure my Monday mornings, and this lady is out there enduring relentless racetracks!
Words from the Wise
Till Bechtolsheimer, the Chairman of Lola Cars, couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Miki aboard the team. “Our commitment to accelerating the next generation of motorsport…providing more opportunities for women across the paddock is an important part of that vision,” he stated. Till, I couldn’t agree more—give these incredible women a chance to put the pedal to the metal! After all, it’s not just about the flashy tech; it’s about the fearless individuals behind the wheel. One could argue that this is the best way to combine horsepower and girl power!
Racing Toward a Bright Future
Miki was candid about her thoughts on this opportunity. “Testing in Valencia was a great opportunity to experience the next generation Formula E car and provide constructive feedback.” Let’s be honest, the only feedback I’d provide after a high-speed car experience would be a quivering “please don’t let me out of this thing!”
She added that being part of an all-female driver test is both thrilling and essential for the sport, stating: “It provides a great platform to learn, excel, and support the team’s growth.” It’s this kind of forward-thinking perspective that’s going to fuel the engine of change!
A Groundbreaking Session
Mark your calendars, folks! This session, the first of its kind in the FIA Championship, is set to take place during pre-season testing at the Ricardo Tormo circuit on Thursday, November 7th. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, not only do they have to show off their skills on the track, but drivers will also find themselves in press conferences and interviews—just try not to spin out when the cameras start flashing!
Remember, every team must now have at least one female driver this season. It’s about time we saw some serious diversification in motorsport! This isn’t just about racing; it’s about paving the way for elite drivers who previously may have felt sidelined, giving them the stage they deserve. The whole process is like a motivational poster, but with real cars and burnt rubber!
In Conclusion
So, as Miki gears up to take the track by storm (and potentially bring some serious thunder), we can only imagine the inspiration she’ll ignite for aspiring drivers everywhere—from those still in go-karts to those dreaming of F1. Let’s raise a toast to Miki Koyama, a true trailblazer in the fast lane of motorsport! Buckle up; this ride promises to be exhilarating!
Category: F1 / Formula E
Edback to the team for next season,” she shared. “It’s exciting to be part of such a forward-thinking initiative, and it provides a great platform to learn and support the team’s growth.” Her enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s clear that she views this new test not just as a chance to showcase her talent but as a significant step towards leveling the playing field in motorsports.
Interview with Miki Koyama: Pioneering the Future of Motorsport
Editor: Miki, first of all, congratulations on being selected for the Formula E women’s test with Lola Yamaha ABT! How does it feel to be part of this landmark event?
Miki Koyama: Thank you! It’s incredibly exciting. Being part of an all-female driver test is a fantastic opportunity not only for me but for all women in motorsports. It helps raise visibility and creates more pathways for female drivers to excel in this field.
Editor: You’ve had an impressive career so far, becoming the first female racer to win the mixed single-seater FIA Championship. How has your journey shaped your approach to this test?
Miki Koyama: Every experience—every win and loss—has taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. I believe those lessons will be vital in the testing sessions. It’s about getting the most out of the car and providing valuable feedback for the team to enhance our performance going into the season.
Editor: Till Bechtolsheimer mentioned that the focus is not just on technology but also on the drivers. What does this initiative mean for aspiring female racers?
Miki Koyama: This initiative is groundbreaking. It sends a strong message that women belong in motorsport at the highest levels. For aspiring racers, it shows that there are pathways available and that we can achieve our dreams with the right support.
Editor: You were previously part of the W Series and are currently competing in the Super GT Championship. How do you see these experiences connecting to the Formula E environment?
Miki Koyama: Each series has its unique challenges, but they all require similar skills—focus, strategy, and teamwork. The experience I’ve gained will help me adapt quickly to the nuances of Formula E and contribute positively to the team.
Editor: Lastly, what are you most looking forward to as you prepare for the test in Valencia?
Miki Koyama: I’m eager to experience the next generation of the Formula E car and learn as much as possible. I want to maximize this opportunity, not just for myself but for everyone involved. The goal is to grow together and push the boundaries of what we can achieve.
Editor: Thank you, Miki! We wish you all the best in Valencia and look forward to seeing you on the track!
Miki Koyama: Thank you so much! I appreciate the support!
Koyama: This initiative is a game-changer. It opens doors for aspiring female racers to showcase their talent on a legitimate platform. When young women see others like me taking these steps, it inspires them to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges. It’s proof that the motorsport world is evolving and becoming more inclusive.
Editor: You’ve had successes in several series, including the Super GT Championship and the W Series. How do you plan to leverage your experience during the upcoming test in Valencia?
Miki Koyama: Each racing series teaches you something unique. The Super GT has sharpened my skills in endurance and strategy, while the W Series focused heavily on competitive parity. I plan to bring that experience to the Formula E test by optimizing my performance and providing constructive feedback, which will be crucial for the team’s development.
Editor: The test is set for November 7th and represents the first all-female driver session in the FIA Championship. How do you feel about being part of this historic moment?
Miki Koyama: It’s truly an honor. I believe this moment will pave the way for future opportunities not just for me but for countless other female drivers. It’s a statement that women can excel in motorsport and deserve a place at the top. I’m hopeful that it will inspire future generations to chase their dreams in this sport.
Editor: what are your goals for this test and what message do you want to send to upcoming female drivers?
Miki Koyama: My primary goal is to perform to the best of my ability and contribute to the team’s growth. I also want to send a message to young female drivers that they belong here. The road may be tough, but with dedication and resilience, they can break through the barriers in motorsports. Let’s keep pushing for progress and support one another as we chase our dreams.
Editor: Thank you so much, Miki! We look forward to seeing you shine at the test and beyond. Good luck!
Miki Koyama: Thank you! I appreciate your support!
