On the fast track with Saudi Arabia’s first professional female racing driver

What inspired you to get into professional racing?

Aspiring to participate in 24 Hours of Le Mans made me realise that racing professionally was a possibility, instead of just being a pipe dream. It was my door into motor racing, but what inspired me to do it professionally was the support and backing I’ve received from everyone at home and around me.

Tell us more about your journey and its impact on Saudi and Arab women?

When I got into motorsport, I was pursuing my passion and therefore, focused on my own personal journey. Initially, I didn’t really look at the bigger picture or think about the influence my career could have on others. Realising how much of an impact I’m making has been one of the biggest rewards of my career so far. By sharing my story, I’m giving people the opportunity to think bigger and aspire toward things that they didn’t think were previously achievable. Motorsport, particularly circuit racing, is quite new in Saudi Arabia, and I hope that what I’m doing will inspire both men and women to strive for more, even if it’s outside of racing.

Tell us how your family has influenced you?

My family has inspired and supported me throughout my career, but my decision to become a racing driver was very much my own. At the time, motorsport wasn’t popular in Saudi Arabia; I had to go out into the world, understand the sport and learn the ins and outs of it. The whole experience was very self-driven.

What have you learned from your experiences as a motor racing driver?

I came into motorsport quite late in life, and when you go into something new, particularly in the world of sport, you always test yourself. You must be mentally sharp and physically strong, as you’re asking your body and mind to do things that you didn’t previously think were possible. I’ve learned so much about managing pressure in racing situations; what you learn on the track is something that you can mirror in life. I’ve learned how to manage my time, make the right decisions, stay focused and set realistic goals. In fact, after every race, I find myself learning something new.

Tell us about Theeba Motorsport?

Entering the world of motorsport was a learning experience. I didn’t know how to get started and had loads of questions about how I could get involved. Now, because of the position I’m in, people often ask me how they can take part. In the past, I didn’t feel like I had the right answers. This inspired me to create Theeba Motorsport  in May. I started the team to give people in Saudi Arabia the opportunity to learn more about the sport. After all the support I’ve received, I wanted to give back. I want to help elevate talent in the region, and Theeba Motorsport will provide a platform for them to learn, grow and eventually be part of an established racing team. I also think of the team as a bridge connecting Saudi Arabia to the rest of the world.

What are some of your most memorable moments?

When I started my career, I was the first female racing driver to come from Saudi Arabia and I think one of the first milestones was racing on the streets of our capital, Riyadh, in a championship called the Jaguar I-PACE Trophy. It was my first race at home, and it was a very special moment for me. I then spent a lot of time honing my skills in racing single-seaters.  Earlier this year, I participated in the Dubai 24 Hours, which was my first endurance race. I finished on the podium, and it ticked all the boxes for me; it felt like all my hard work was paying off. Founding Theeba Motorsport and its first win were also proud moments that I will never forget.

You recently had to retire from round one of the International GT Open in Hungary. How did that impact your ranking?

After having a difficult race at Spa in Belgium, I think we all had very high hopes for Hungary, but unfortunately, an accident in the first race meant that we had to withdraw from the rest of the weekend. Up until that point, we were performing very well so it was frustrating to end our weekend in that way, but I think the challenges we’ve faced have made us stronger as a team. In our class, we’re currently second in the championship, 20 points behind the leaders, but there are still six races to go and 60 points available. We’re very motivated for the second half of the season and we’ll be giving it our all.

What’s your big goal?

My main aspiration is to compete in 24 Hours of Le Mans. Le Mans was the race that showed me that it wasn’t too late to pursue a career in motorsport. I saw drivers who were older than me, competing in this world-class race and finishing on the podium and it made me realise that if they can do it, I could too.

What’s next for you?

I’ve just finished racing at the 24 Hours of Spa, which is probably the biggest race of my career to date. We claimed victory in the Bronze Cup class at the race. It was a race that I was really looking forward to, as it was a chance to compete against some of the best drivers in the world. Looking ahead, I have very high hopes for the upcoming races at the Red Bull Ring and if we’re able to deliver strong results in the final three weekends, I think we still have the potential to take home the title. We’re currently evaluating several winter series that we can compete in the Middle East.

If not racing, what would you be doing?

Before I started racing, I was primarily working in finance and investments. I still have an avid interest in business and investing.

Any advice for women looking to join the sport?

I’ve gleaned quite a lot from my experiences in motorsport. I’ve learned that I can be my worst critic, but at the same time, my biggest cheerleader. Self-belief is sometimes easier said than done, but I felt that it was important that I trusted my abilities when I first came into the sport. Entering a new environment, especially a space primarily dominated by men, can be intimidating at first, but it’s important that you put your best foot forward and remember that you’re here to learn. It’s important to be true to yourself and believe in your abilities, but also be patient.