Fast cars, private jets, and high-octane thrills—the world of motorsport often appears larger than life, with F1 drivers jet-setting from city to city in pursuit of the coveted World Championship. Even before they step onto the track, let alone Formula One, most racers spend countless hours in racing simulators and undergo rigorous training to be at their best. Add to that the challenges of securing funding, attracting sponsors, and marketing themselves not just to legions of motorsport fans, but to brands and teams alike. Yet, the truth, as it turns out, is far simpler than you might imagine. While preparing for our interview with F1 Academy driver Bianca Bustamante, I spotted a group of drivers heading off to a 7-Eleven for supper after a long day at the circuit. They’re just like us, I thought—if you overlook the fact that they drive Tatuus F4-T421 race cars at 220 miles an hour in pursuit of their dreams across the globe. For Bianca, one of the brightest female stars in motorsport today, this is simply part of the journey.
The Filipino driver grew up spending hours with her father at the karting track—he even bought her first race suit when she was just one year old. By the time she was three, Bianca had begun karting herself and was competing on the local and regional scene by age five. After catching attention at the FIA Girls on Track Rising Stars shootout—a programme designed to identify the top female drivers aged 12 to 16 worldwide as they pursue careers in professional motorsport—she went on to compete in the 2022 season of the W Series and the 2023 Formula 4 UAE Championship with Prema Powerteam.
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In 2023, Bianca was among the first racers announced for the inaugural F1 Academy series—an all-women’s junior championship dedicated to creating a smoother transition from karting to the single-seater ladder. Since then, she has flourished into one of the sport’s rising stars. Bianca made history as the first female driver to sign with the McLaren Driver Development Programme and only the second driver to join the prestigious British racing team in this capacity.
More recently, the rising star competed in the Italian F4 Championship with ART Grand Prix at Monza and was selected to join NEOM McLaren’s Formula E Team in the women’s test, alongside Ella Lloyd. Off the track, she boasts 1.5 million followers on Instagram and was ranked 64th globally on SportsPro’s 2024 list of the most marketable athletes, joining the ranks of McLaren’s own Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, as well as Formula One icons Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Charles Leclerc.
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Ahead, Bianca shares insights into her journey in motorsport, the challenges she’s faced along the way, conversations with her idols, and more.
Describe yourself in three words.
Wow, it's already a tough one [laughs]! I would say creative, bubbly, and chaotic.
What sparked your interest in racing?
Motorsport wasn’t widely recognised in the Philippines, and many people didn’t pay much attention to it, but my dad was passionate about it. He introduced me to the sport when I was a child, and I’m grateful because he ignited my interest in pursuing something no one in my country had done before.
What has been the most memorable moment in your career so far?
Probably signing with McLaren, first and foremost—it completely changed my life. Living in London, bonding with the team, and training at the headquarters has been an incredible experience. Securing P1 in Miami was a moment not just for me, but for the entire team. Lando (Norris) also won his first race that weekend.
What were the challenges you faced pursuing a career in motorsport?
I can't list them all, but the lack of opportunities, especially in Southeast Asia, is one of the biggest challenges. Not many drivers or teams come from Asia, and I often felt like my dreams were out of reach. However, with the support of many people, I’ve been able to get to where I am now. Another struggle is funding my career, as racing can be expensive—as we all know. You need to be able to afford tests, training, and travel to keep racing, and it’s something we contend with every day, to be honest. But I also think this is one of the best aspects of the sport, because you’ve already won half the battle before you even step onto the track.
How does it feel to represent the Philippines on the international racing scene?
It’s cool because the Philippines is known for basketball and boxing, but not motorsport. I’ve always wanted to bring the sport closer to my country, so when I had my fan meet back home in August, it was important to me to include elements like the simulators, the Formula Three car, the go-kart, and Blaze bots. There’s also a small local karting scene in the Philippines, which I hope will eventually go international. I want to inspire the next generation and see more Filipinos racing abroad, so I don’t have to feel so alone in the sport.
Have you had the chance to speak with any of your racing heroes?
One of the main heroes I had the chance to speak with early on in my career was Lewis (Hamilton) back in 2020 during the W Series. He understands firsthand the challenges of making it in the sport. Not a day goes by without the feeling of uncertainty, because at any moment, you could lose everything—you might not be able to race the next year if you can’t afford it, or if sponsors pull out and you’re left without funding. He really sympathises with that. I’ve also spoken to Lando and Oscar (Piastri)—I see them all the time at the McLaren headquarters. Lando actually came over to the paddock for my first F1 Academy race. It’s incredibly cool to have our male allies supporting us.
What has your experience with McLaren been like?
It’s been amazing. I’ve learned so much from them and by being around them. I’ve seen growth in myself and the team, especially with us leading the Constructor's Championship. (In Formula One, the Constructor's Championship is one of the two world championships, awarded to the team with the most championship points at the end of the season.) It’s been a fantastic experience for me.
Can you give us a hint of what we can expect from the upcoming F1 Academy series on Netflix?
I’m currently living in my first flat, and they’re filming me learning how to cook, do the laundry, and wash the dishes. It’s funny because Netflix came over to my flat and just filmed me cleaning. [Laughs] I’m not sure if that’s something people want to see, but yeah, proper adulting.
While you were in Singapore, you worked with Sephora and some of its Sephora Squad members. How did that collaboration come about, and how do you keep your makeup intact during races?
I'm very much into makeup—it's something I venture into a lot. I have make-up inspiration stored in my phone. Everyone always asks me how I keep my foundation intact and it's all in a really good setting spray (Bianca has been spotted with Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray). A good foundation is also important.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
I love photography, videography, and editing—I manage all my social media myself. I also enjoy drawing floor plans, sketches, and portraits. As for sports, I’m into rock climbing, badminton, squash, and water sports.
What would you say to younger Bianca?
Stop worrying about what might not happen. I feel like I spent my whole life worrying about where, who, and what I'll end up being instead of focusing on the present.
What advice would you give for girls wanting to get into motorsport?
Face your fears—not just in racing, but in everything. Live life with courage and do something that scares you every day. Sometimes, we feel as though we’re trapped in a box because we fear failure and worry that we might not succeed. I’m afraid, I’m scared, but that’s okay because I love what I’m doing, and it fuels me. That’s the only way you’ll know you’re on the right path. I also think it’s important to embrace your individuality and stand out from the crowd—be boldly yourself.
The final two races for this year's F1 Academy season will be held in Lusail, Qatar from 29 November to 1 December 2024 and Yas Island, United Arab Emirates from 6 to 8 December 2024. For more information, visit F1 Academy's website.
*The interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.