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Breaking barriers in motorsport
At the age of 22, Farah AlYousef is not just a name in the world of motorsport; she is a beacon of hope and inspiration for many young women in Saudi Arabia. As she prepares to race at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, her home track, the excitement is palpable. This weekend, she will be competing as a wildcard entry in the F1 Academy, a female-only racing series that runs alongside the prestigious Formula 1 calendar. AlYousef’s journey is remarkable, especially considering her family’s unique relationship with cars—her mother has never driven and has no desire to learn. Yet, AlYousef is determined to change the narrative.
Embracing the pressure
“There’s definitely the pressure factor,” AlYousef acknowledges, reflecting on her role as a representative of a minority in a country where women have only been able to obtain a driver’s license since 2018. “I think it’s just a matter of how you would use that pressure to refuel your motivation.” This pressure is not just personal; it symbolizes the dreams and aspirations of countless young girls in Saudi Arabia. AlYousef feels a profound responsibility to represent them well, stating, “I’m doing my absolute best to represent them in the best way possible.” Her commitment to her sport and her country is unwavering, and she is determined to achieve great victories for herself and those who look up to her.
A journey fueled by passion
AlYousef’s passion for motorsport ignited at the age of 16 when she first stepped into a kart. “I went into karting and ever since, I was like, this is the sport that I really want to dedicate myself to,” she recalls. Her journey has not been without challenges, including adapting to the unpredictable British weather while honing her skills. “You know how it is in the UK with the wet conditions and the stormy and rainy weather. It can fast-track a driver’s knowledge and experience with handling the car,” she explains. Her dedication paid off when she became the female champion in karting in 2022, leading her to the SWS World Finals and eventually to the UK for further training.
Looking ahead
As AlYousef gears up for her race, she reflects on her rapid progression in the sport. “More progression, definitely. More experience. Definitely lots of single-seaters in the upcoming years – and lots of victories in general,” she smiles, exuding confidence and determination. Her journey is just beginning, and with each race, she is not only carving her path but also paving the way for future generations of female racers in Saudi Arabia. AlYousef’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and the power of dreams, proving that with passion and hard work, anything is possible.