Claire Dubbelman has made history as the first woman, first Dutch national, and the youngest recipient of the FIA race director superlicence. With a deep passion for motorsport fostered by her father, she has spent years building her career in race control, recently stepping into the role of deputy race director. Dubbelman emphasizes the importance of perseverance and teamwork in her journey, advocating for increased female representation in motorsport.
Claire Dubbelman has made history by becoming the first woman, first Dutch national, and also the youngest to receive the FIA race director superlicence. This winter, Dubbelman officially joined the ranks of FIA Race Directors after years in Formula 1 race control, showcasing her dedication to the sport.
Dubbelman’s journey in motorsport traces back to her childhood, largely influenced by her father Huub, a former automotive journalist. She recalls, “From the time I was little, my father would wake me up – at my own request, of course – to watch Formula 1.” Early visits to Zandvoort for racing events with her father solidified her passion for motorsport.
Having completed her degree in international communication by age 21, Dubbelman made the leap into the automotive world, starting in marketing at Carver. Opportunity knocked when she joined a racing agency for Formula Renault, which became a stepping stone for her career. “I did everything that doesn’t involve a screwdriver!” she laughed, highlighting her extensive role.
She made her entry into the FIA as a media delegate from 2012-2013 and later secured a full-time position in 2017 as championship manager, managing junior series. By late 2022, Dubbelman was working as a race control operator in Formula 1, helping execute the decisions of the race director. In 2024, she stepped up to deputy race director. “That means I moved one seat to the left,” saw Dubbelman with a grin.
The FIA race director superlicence now authorises her to assume the race director position. “This year, the FIA decided that anyone who can impact the race must have this license,” she said. Dubbelman is proud to represent women in a field where they are often underrepresented. “The fact that so few women are available for a position like this shows how difficult it is,” she emphasized.
Although she’s typically the only woman in decision-making meetings, Dubbelman notices positive changes within the organisation. “Now, if you look at the FIA, you see a very different picture. We have women across all departments,” she insisted, highlighting that increased representation is notable even in prominent roles.
Looking towards the future, Dubbelman has ambitions to become an F1 race director, but with a focus on teamwork rather than individual decision-making. “I’ve always said it should be less about one individual and more about teamwork,” she reiterated. However, she’s also mindful of the support she needs as she continues to grow in her role.
Dubbelman is open to staying in her current position as deputy race director for now but doesn’t rule out future advancement. “I can say what I would like, but that doesn’t mean anyone has to listen to me,” she acknowledged, striking a balance between ambition and patience as she navigates her career in F1.
In a nutshell, Claire Dubbelman’s incredible journey marks a significant milestone for women in motorsport. From early ambitions to breaking barriers in the FIA, her story underlines the importance of perseverance in achieving one’s goals in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Claire Dubbelman’s historic achievement as the first woman with an FIA race director superlicence highlights her dedication and hard work in a field that remains largely male-dominated. Her early experiences in motorsport, diverse career background, and passion for teamwork position her to inspire future generations while pushing for greater representation in the sport. Dubbelman embodies the potential for change in the world of Formula 1, setting the stage for further advancements for women in racing roles.
Original Source: www.autosport.com