Hamda Al-Qubaisi closed her F1 Academy career on a high note with two podium finishes during the final races in Abu Dhabi, solidifying her impact in the sport as a pioneer for Arab women. Despite facing challenges throughout the season, she expressed gratitude for the support from her family and her team as she looks towards the future with determination to continue racing.
In a remarkable finale to her F1 Academy career at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, Hamda Al-Qubaisi achieved significant success by securing two podium finishes in the season’s closing races. As one of the first Arab women in motorsport, Al-Qubaisi encapsulated her journey by expressing a commitment to continue racing despite not having concrete plans for the upcoming year.
Throughout her F1 Academy tenure, Al-Qubaisi showcased an impressive performance, finishing third in her inaugural season with multiple victories. However, her second season proved challenging, culminating in her arrival at the final race with limited podium finishes. Nonetheless, she rose to the occasion in Abu Dhabi, completing Race 1 in second place and Race 2 in third, ultimately finishing fifth in the drivers’ championship.
Reflecting on her emotions after the races, Al-Qubaisi remarked on the swift passage of the season and expressed her desire to make the most of her final competition at home. Engaging with the support of her family, she emphasized the pride and joy of achieving success in front of her local audience: “It’s an amazing feeling for me. I feel happy to do it here in front of my home crowd. The support I had all weekend was amazing.” – Source: Arab News.
Al-Qubaisi, alongside her sister Amna, has made strides in the motorsport industry, paving the way for future generations of Arab female racing drivers. Amna’s contributions in the championship, albeit less prominent, also highlight their collective effort in breaking barriers and inspiring young girls in motorsport.
Expressing her gratitude for being part of the Red Bull family and utilizing their facilities, Al-Qubaisi acknowledged the valuable experience she gained in this prestigious environment. Despite challenges during 2024, Al-Qubaisi maintained optimism about her progress and the hard work that ultimately led to her commendable performances in Abu Dhabi: “We worked hard to make sure the car was good and we were able to get there at some point and we’re there now. It’s OK, it’s never too late.” – Source: Arab News.
The F1 Academy, a female-only racing series, was established to create opportunities for women in motorsport, reflecting an increase in representation in a traditionally male-dominated field. Hamda Al-Qubaisi, an Emirati driver, has been influential in promoting this cause, alongside her sister Amna, as they compete to inspire other Arab women to pursue careers in racing. Their experiences in the Academy have garnered attention not only in the UAE but also on an international scale, underscoring the significance of women’s participation in premium motorsport events.
In conclusion, Hamda Al-Qubaisi completed her F1 Academy career with distinction, achieving notable podium finishes and cementing her status as a pioneer for Arab women in motorsport. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of perseverance and representation in a field still striving for gender equality. As she reflects on her experiences, Al-Qubaisi remains optimistic about her future in racing, signaling an ongoing commitment to her passion and the path she has carved for others.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
