Mechanical problem cuts short Wolff’s debut

An oil pressure problem ended Susie Wolff’s grand prix weekend debut prematurely in the opening free practice session at Silverstone.

The Williams test driver became the first women to compete in a Formula 1 weekend for 22 years at this weekend’s British Grand Prix. Italy’s Giovanna Amati was the last female to take part in an F1 event back in 1992.

However, Wolff was forced to bring her FW36 to a stop at Club corner after banking just one flying lap. The team were unable to resolve the issue.

“It was a really tough day but that’s Formula 1 sometimes,” Wolff told BBC Sport.

“We had an oil pressure problem which cut the engines – the guys are looking at getting it fixed for free practice two.

“I want to say a huge thank you for all the support – it means a lot and really helps. It was wonderful.

“Going out there was the best feeling and although there’s been a lot of media around this run, once I had put the helmet on that was the best feeling, and as soon as I had left the pit lane, everything felt good.”

Wolff will have another opportunity behind the wheel of the Williams at the German Grand Prix on July 18-20.

Meanwhile, Nico Rosberg topped the times in the opening session of the weekend comfortably ahead of Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton.

The championship leader was the only man to lap in the 1.35s bracket as he posted a personal best time a full seven tenths quicker than Hamilton.

Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso was third fastest ahead of Red Bull Racing’s Daniel Ricciardo.

Kimi Raikkonen was fifth with reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel sixth.

It would prove to be a nightmare start for Williams with the team recording just 11 laps as Felipe Massa suffered a high speed crash in addition to Wolff’s problems.

Formula 1 British Grand Prix Free Practice 1 Results