Williams test driver Susie Wolff has announced plans to retire from motorsport at the end of the season.
The 32-year-old joined the Formula 1 team in 2012 after spending seven years in the German Touring Car Championship.
The driver, who is married to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, took part in four practice sessions at grands prix over the last two seasons.
In her column for Huffington Post, Wolff wrote: "My gut feeling tells me it is time to move on. Time to explore new challenges and push myself in new environments. As a sportsperson it is always difficult to know when to stop but for me, this journey has come to an end.
"I can only tell you, I gave it my all. Do I think F1 is ready for a competitive female racing driver that can perform at the highest level? Yes. Do I think it is achievable as a woman? Most definitely. Do I think it will happen soon? Sadly no. We have two issues, not enough young girls starting in karting at a young age and no clear role model. Sometimes you just have to see it to believe it."
Williams's deputy team principal Claire Williams said: "It has been a pleasure to work with Susie over the years and see her develop as a driver within the team. Her feedback and knowledge of the car has been an important part our recent development and we will be sorry to see her go. We want to thank her for all her efforts and wish her the very best for her future endeavours."
Wolff's final appearance as a racing driver will be when she represents Scotland in the Race of Champions in London's Olympic Stadium on November 20 and 21.
Danielle Joynson
