Filipino-American race car driver Bianca Bustamante is making headlines again, this time as a featured star in the upcoming Netflix docuseries “F1: The Academy.” This new series sheds light on the journeys of women in motorsport and is produced by Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, with its official premiere set for May 28.
At just 20 years old, Bustamante has already made a name for herself as the first Filipina driver signed by McLaren. She is not only striving for success on the racetrack but is also committed to representing her country and inspiring a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts in the Philippines and beyond.
Ahead of the premiere, Bustamante expressed her excitement on Instagram, stating, “Our @netflix F1: Academy show finally premiering tonight, what a feeling!” As she attended the red carpet event in Miami, she embraced the significance of the moment, sharing, “Just a girl in a red dress making her red carpet debut, experiencing one of little Bia’s dreams right now.”
Reflecting on her experiences while watching the show for the first time, she shared, “It’s surreal… This little life really has grown so much, and I can’t wait for the rest of the world to watch it.” The docuseries explores not only the professional challenges but also the emotional and physical journeys faced by female racers in a predominantly male environment. Bustamante emphasized the dedication involved, noting that the team showed “so much vulnerability” and described the project as a “huge leap of faith.”
In the days leading up to the series premiere, she took the opportunity to connect with fans and collaborate with brands during the Miami Grand Prix, labeling her time there as “lovely.” Bustamante’s journey is a testament to the progress being made in diversifying motorsport, showcasing that representation is increasingly becoming a reality. As the world tunes in to “F1: The Academy,” they will witness the inspiring story of a young woman who is not only racing for herself but also for all aspiring drivers from her homeland.