A women-only motor racing championship is to be launched by Mazda. The series will use Mazda's new RX-8 sports car in the single marque formula which opens with selection trials at UK race circuits during May and June this year.

The Formula Woman championship is open to any female aged 18 and over with a UK driving licence and who has not previously competed in motorsport. Candidates will be put through driving, fitness, reaction, personality and presentational skills tests before race training starts.