Renault leading the way for female drivers

December 2011

Renault's Formula 1 team is close to signing a female driver as part of their racing team for 2012.

Speaking to Europa Press, Spanish driver Maria de Villota said she could become the "Friday or the replacement driver" for the Renault-Lotus Formula One team next year - a role that could place her on the starting grid in 2013.

"There are many women who can drive well and so it is important to try to open the way for others to see that it is not something so unusual," de Villota said last week (November 30).

Having made her debut for Renault back in August, de Villota completed an impressive test at the Paul Ricard circuit.

The 31-year-old is the daughter of former Formula One racing star Emilio de Villota, who enjoyed success in the 1970s and 80s.

Italy's Giovanna Amati was the last female racer to compete in Formula One having entered - but did not qualify for - three events in total.

The current range of Renault cars, including the Renault Clio, Renault Latitude and Renault Megane offer a car experience worthy of any professional driver - male or female.