A former Formula 1 world champion has backed the idea of women drivers making their modern debut in the sport.

Alan Jones told Eurosport he thought recent technological developments in Formula 1 cars meant female participation was a step closer.

At least one Formula 1 team is reportedly ready to offer tests to a woman driver next year.

Jones told Eurosport: "Nowadays, with power steering and paddle change, Danica Patrick or another woman could make a good F1 or A1 driver."

He said downforce in older cars was one element which meant the "physical nature" of Formula 1 in previous years would have hindered a female competitor.

The sport has seen female drivers in the 1970s and 1980s but they are unheard of in modern Formula 1.

Eurosport also reports Andretti Green IndyCar driver Danica Patrick could take part in tests with Honda's Formula 1 contingent in the next 12 months.

Australian Alan Jones won five races on his way to the Formula 1 world championship title in 1980.

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