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The FIA recently concluded the 2025 World Endurance Championship with an extraordinary event that celebrated diversity within the racing community. Held at the 8 Hours of Bahrain, this finale was not just about the race; it was a platform for recognizing the accomplishments of female sim racers. By collaborating with the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission, the FIA provided a unique opportunity for talented women from around the world to showcase their skills in virtual racing.
This initiative brought together five exceptional female racers who qualified through an online Time Attack competition on iRacing. Their invitation to Bahrain served as both a reward for their impressive performances and an opportunity to immerse themselves in real-world endurance racing experiences.
Experience the world of endurance racing
While in Bahrain, these participants tested their skills using the Le Mans Ultimate simulation game, the official video game of the World Endurance Championship. This program offered them exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the FIA’s operations during a live racing weekend. Activities included visits to critical areas such as Race Control and Scrutineering, allowing them to witness the intricacies involved in managing a high-stakes race.
Meet the talented participants
The five women who participated in this initiative hailed from various countries, each bringing unique experiences. One standout participant was Fabienne Lanz from South Africa, known for her advocacy for sim racing and her initiative, the Girls Camp for Africa. Another notable racer was Andrea Aymon from Switzerland, a six-time GT3 Endurance champion on iRacing.
Among the group was Beverley D’Souza, of Indian-Portuguese descent and raised in Dubai, who recently triumphed in the opening rounds of the UAE Sim Championship. The UK’s Holly Card, a passionate young sim racer with a keen interest in single-seater cars, and Brenna Schubert from the USA, who bridges the gap between virtual and actual racing, rounded out the diverse lineup.
Reflecting on her experience, Card expressed gratitude, stating, “It was an amazing weekend, and I was incredibly grateful for the opportunity. Getting a glimpse behind the scenes in aspects like Race Control and Scrutineering was fascinating.” Similarly, Aymon remarked, “The days provided an incredible deep dive into the motorsport world, and the connections made during the weekend truly enriched the experience.”
Empowering women in motorsport
The FIA’s initiative during the Bahrain finale was a powerful statement about the talent of these female racers and the collective mission to empower women in motorsport, whether they are racing virtually or on actual tracks. This effort underscores the growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion within the motorsport industry.
By fostering a supportive environment for female racers, the FIA aims to inspire future generations of women to pursue their passions in motorsport. This initiative serves as a vital stepping stone for women seeking to break barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field, demonstrating that talent and dedication know no gender.
The FIA’s esports initiative at the Bahrain finale exemplified a commitment to celebrating the achievements of women in racing and promoting a more inclusive future for the sport. With each event, the FIA continues to pave the way for women to thrive in both virtual and physical racing environments.