Abbi Pulling keen to take her chance and go ‘a long way’ after French test

Sign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. But on Friday, the 19-year-old British W Series driver will get behind the wheel of a Formula 3 car, one of four women selected for a test at France’s Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours. Formula Regional’s Hamda Al Qubaisi rounds out the group, and will join Pulling for a full day of testing intended to, said a statement, “introduce them to the category, its car and different set-ups, along with the demands and challenges of its environment.” While some have wondered about the need for an all-female single seater series, Pulling is arguably proof positive for its value. This season also marks Pulling’s first as an Alpine Affiliate driver, an opportunity one might argue would not have been possible had the W Series door not fully opened after F4’s closed. Formula 2 and Formula 3 CEO Bruno Michel is adamant the upcoming tests be seen as a learning opportunity rather than an audition, saying: “The purpose of this test is not to compare their performance, but it is an opportunity for them to understand what is required from an F3 driver from every aspect, so that they can prepare for the challenges when they progress to our championship, hopefully in the near future.” His message, however, seemed to be directly in contrast to that of Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, who said: “This test, the second of its kind, will provide real opportunity for these four talented drivers to demonstrate their potential to teams and make the case for a competitive seat in years to come.” Whatever the case, Gosberton-based Pulling is ready to seize the opportunity full throttle.