Salva Marjan Poised to Make History as Kerala’s First Woman in Formula 1 Academy

Salva Marjan Poised to Make History as Kerala’s First Woman in Formula 1 Academy

Salva Marjan, a 25-year-old from Kerala, is set to become the first woman from her state to join the prestigious Formula 1 Academy, breaking barriers in the male-dominated motorsport world.

Key Points
  • Salva Marjan, 25, is set to become the first woman from Kerala to join the Formula 1 Academy in 2025.
  • Her journey began in the Formula LGB series in India and progressed to the F4 Indian Championship and F4 UAE Championship.
  • Despite starting her racing career in 2018, Salva quickly rose through the ranks due to her passion and talent.
  • Currently training in the UAE, she is preparing rigorously for the challenges of the F1 Academy.
  • Salva’s entry into Formula 1 marks a significant achievement in a sport traditionally dominated by men.

Salva Marjan, a 25-year-old motorsport enthusiast from Kerala, is on the verge of making history. She is set to become the first woman from her state to join the prestigious Formula 1 Academy, an achievement that not only highlights her determination but also paves the way for future generations of women in motorsports.

Salva’s journey began nearly a decade ago in Perambra, a rural area in Kozhikode, where a young girl was captivated by the world of racing. The thrill of speed, the precision required to navigate tight turns, and the sheer determination needed to succeed in such a demanding sport sparked a dream within her. This fascination quickly transformed into a lifelong ambition.

Her formal entry into the world of motorsports started with the Formula LGB series in India, an entry-level racing platform that allowed her to hone her skills. Her dedication and talent were evident from the start, quickly earning her a spot in the F4 Indian Championship in 2023. Salva’s performance there was nothing short of impressive, and she further proved her mettle by competing in the F4 UAE Championship, completing 150 laps and successfully finishing 119 of them.

Despite beginning her racing career relatively late in 2018, Salva’s unyielding passion and natural talent have propelled her to the top ranks of the F4 circuit in India. Recognizing the need for advanced training and broader opportunities, she made the decision to relocate to the United Arab Emirates. There, she has been rigorously preparing for her next big challenge: competing in the Formula 1 Academy, organized by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), set to take place in January 2025.

In a sport that has been traditionally dominated by men, Salva is well aware of the unique challenges women face. The physical demands of racing are immense, with temperatures inside the car often reaching 40°C, braking pressures ranging from 60 to 100 kg on curves, and the potential to lose up to 4 kg of body weight during a single race. Yet, Salva remains undeterred.

Her entry into the Formula 1 Academy is not just a personal achievement but a significant milestone for women in motorsports, especially in a country like India where such opportunities have been limited. Salva Marjan’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. As she stands on the brink of history, she is not just breaking barriers but also inspiring a new generation of women to chase their dreams, no matter how high the stakes.