DRIVEN
By Susie Wolff
Publisher: Holt
The managing director of F1 Academy and former professional racing driver chronicles her time in the sport.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
In "Driven," Susie Wolff delivers an unflinchingly candid memoir that charts her extraordinary journey through the male-dominated world of motorsport. From her early days in karting to her groundbreaking role as a development driver for the Williams Formula 1 team, Wolff's narrative is both compelling and inspiring.
Wolff's prose is refreshingly straightforward, eschewing the often self-congratulatory tone found in many athlete memoirs. She provides a meticulous account of her career, detailing the relentless challenges she faced as a woman in a sport notorious for its gender disparities. Her descriptions of the physical and mental demands of racing are vivid, offering readers an immersive glimpse into the high-octane world of motorsport.
One of the book's most striking aspects is Wolff's unvarnished portrayal of the sexism she encountered. From dismissive attitudes of industry stalwarts to the lack of equipment designed for female racers, her experiences underscore the systemic barriers within the sport. Particularly harrowing is her account of a high-ranking official's inappropriate behavior, a stark reminder of the pervasive challenges women face in male-dominated fields.
While Wolff's relationship with her husband, Toto Wolff, the Team Principal of Mercedes F1, is touched upon, it is never allowed to overshadow her own narrative. This is unequivocally Susie's story—a testament to her resilience and determination. However, the memoir does leave readers yearning for more depth in certain areas, particularly her tenure as a development driver and her leadership of the F1 Academy. These sections feel somewhat cursory, leaving a desire for a more comprehensive exploration of these pivotal chapters in her career.
Overall, "Driven" is a powerful and inspiring read that sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of women in motorsport. Wolff's story is a clarion call for perseverance and a reminder of the importance of challenging the status quo.
Recommendation: Highly recommended!
written on: 5/7/2026