Whoa, Karting Talents Get a Major Boost from FIA’s Women in Motorsports!
So, here’s the lowdown. The bigwigs at the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile—yep, the FIA—have decided to back two super-talented girls in the FIA Karting Academy Trophy this season. It’s like the Oscars for karting, kinda. Anyway, Emma-Rose Dowling and Eva Dorrestijn are the stars of our show. Emma’s got the gig in OK-Junior (think ages 12-14), while Eva’s zooming into the brand new senior slot (14-16). I mean, when did I ever think about my career at 14?
This whole karting thing is kind of a big deal. Some past racers went on to be legends like Charles Leclerc and George Russell. Not to drop names, but you get it. Oh, and these young guns? They get guidance from the Women in Motorsport Commission. Bonus, right?
Emma-Rose, oh man, she’s something else. South African, she’s taking the Junior Max Rotax Series in SA by storm! It’s like she’s racking up wins as fast as I lose my car keys. She’s also part of the Toyota Gazoo Junior Racing Academy. Fancy, eh? She even got a nod for the Iron Dames Young Talents thing—like, tell me this kid isn’t on fire.
Then there’s Eva, prepping for her spotlight moment. Dutch and 15, placed 8th in the IAME Series Benelux. I couldn’t even place 8th if it was a two-person race. She also snagged Best Lady (I’d like a medal just for getting through a day, let’s be real). Anyway, she’s a finalist for FIA Girls on Track Rising Stars, rubbing shoulders with pros like Maya Weug. High-five!
So when does this all kick off? Senior races in Portimao, Brazil, starting May. Then Valencia’s up for juniors. It’s like a world tour but with less luggage and more speed.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem—he’s hyped about inclusive racing. Honestly, I’m psyched too. Feels like motorsport’s finally catching up. More girls, more diversity—it’s all good vibes. And Burcu Cetinkaya from the Women in Motorsport Commission? She’s all about celebrating these drivers and their future journeys. Positive vibes across the board.
Seriously, if there’s anything cooler than watching folks zoom around at breakneck speed, it’s knowing that our stars are being prepped right from the start. Here’s to Emma-Rose and Eva tearing up the tracks—and maybe breaking a few records while they’re at it. Cheers to that!
