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Claire Dubbelman, First Woman to Hold FIA Race Director Superlicence, Highlights Slow but Significant Progress for Women in Motorsport

Claire Dubbelman, who made history by becoming the first woman to hold an FIA Race Director’s superlicence, has opened up about the gradual evolution of female representation within motorsport  a field traditionally dominated by men.

Dubbelman not only broke gender barriers over the winter, but also set new national and age records, becoming the first Dutch national and the youngest individual ever to achieve the prestigious licence. Her journey with the FIA began as Championship Manager overseeing junior categories, a crucial position that helped her understand the foundations of racing governance. Her dedication and skill later propelled her to the role of Race Control Operator in Formula 1 during 2023, before her promotion to Deputy Race Director in 2024.

In an interview with Motorsport.com, Dubbelman reflected candidly on the changing dynamics she has witnessed. She acknowledged that while there is a clear shift underway, change remains painstakingly slow.

“There is definitely progress, but it’s a gradual process,” she said. “For example, during drivers’ briefings  which include FIA and FOM officials, team managers, sporting directors, and drivers  I still find myself being the only woman in the room nine times out of ten. It’s not necessarily difficult to navigate, but it does serve as a stark reminder that there’s still a long journey ahead.”

Dubbelman’s comments serve as a timely reminder, especially during a landmark moment in motorsport history: the 50th anniversary of Lella Lombardi scoring points in Formula 1, the only woman to have done so to date. Despite initiatives such as the newly established F1 Academy, aimed at nurturing female driving talent, the sport still faces a significant gender gap at all levels.

However, Dubbelman expressed optimism about the cultural shifts happening within the FIA itself.

“When I joined the FIA, many women worked there, but they were primarily in administrative roles,” she noted. “While those positions are absolutely critical, it was rare to see women visibly active in operational and leadership roles. That’s now changing.”

She proudly highlighted the visible presence of women in a variety of technical and operational positions:

“Today, we have a female scrutineer within the technical team, a woman heading operations, a female race starter, and a woman overseeing ceremonial duties. These are highly visible, influential roles, and seeing more women take up such positions shows real progress.”

Dubbelman added that such representation not only brings diverse perspectives but also sends a powerful message to young women aspiring to enter motorsport that there is indeed a place for them beyond traditional boundaries.

“Representation matters,” she concluded. “When young girls and women see others succeeding visibly at high levels within motorsport, it breaks down the psychological barriers that once seemed insurmountable.”

With her trailblazing achievements and an increasing number of women entering various fields within motorsport, Claire Dubbelman’s story is both a symbol of progress and a reminder that the drive for gender equality on and off the track is far from over.