Amna Al Qubaisi (Instagram) is a trailblazer, a record-setter, and a force of nature on the racetrack. The Emirati professional driver has not only shattered stereotypes but also paved the way for a new generation of female athletes in motorsports. With her unapologetic determination and unparalleled passion, Al Qubaisi is redefining what it means to be a racer in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Her journey, filled with grit and resilience, offers a glimpse into the life of a woman who dares to dream big and race even faster.
Growing up, Amna Al Qubaisi found her first inspiration close to home. “My father was a racing driver himself, and he was my initial inspiration to start in motorsports,” she shares. What began as a way to bond with her father, Khaled Al Qubaisi, soon turned into a passion that would define her life. Her entry into the sport was facilitated by the Daman Speed Academy, an institution she credits with honing her skills and teaching her the fundamentals of racing. “They built and taught me every part of racing,” she recalls.
Al Qubaisi’s first major victory came in 2019 during the UAE F4 Trophy round. The triumph wasn’t just any win, it was a moment of national pride, taking place on her home track during the Formula 1 Grand Prix. “Standing on the F1 podium after years of hard work felt so sweet,” she says. The victory was due to her dedication and resilience, underscoring the sacrifices and relentless effort that go into every race. For Al Qubaisi, this win was not only a personal milestone but also a symbolic achievement for the UAE and for women in motorsports. The roar of the crowd, the national flag soaring above her, and the recognition on such a prestigious platform amplified the significance of the moment. It was proof that perseverance and an unrelenting commitment to excellence could break barriers and inspire countless others to follow in her footsteps.
Every milestone in Al Qubaisi’s career carries historical significance. She has consistently broken barriers, becoming the first female Emirati driver to compete in a number of championships, from the Italian F4 series to the F3 Asian Championship and the F1 Academy. “What these achievements mean to me is that they’re paving the way for young Arab girls who dream of competing at a high level in motorsports,” she says.
Despite the accolades, the road hasn’t been easy. Al Qubaisi acknowledges the challenges of competing in a male-dominated field, particularly the lack of financial support. “Most of the support goes toward male drivers. For female drivers, we don’t get the same level of investment. My competitors often have the budget to test and familiarize themselves with tracks, while I have just enough to compete in the championship,” she explains. This financial disparity often means Al Qubaisi enters race weekends with limited preparation, relying on her skill and adaptability to compete against better-funded rivals. The uneven playing field not only underscores the systemic barriers female drivers face, but also highlights Al Qubaisi’s extraordinary ability to thrive under pressure and natural talent. Her determination to push forward, despite these challenges, is a reflection of her passion for the sport and her unwavering belief in her own potential.
Amna Al Qubaisi’s father, Khaled Al Qubaisi, remains her guiding light in the world of racing. “He has always taught me to be patient and accepting of the results,” she says. Another key source of inspiration is her younger sister, Hamda, who races alongside her. “She’s my main inspiration,” Al Qubaisi notes. Together, the sisters are carving out a new narrative for women in motorsports, proving that talent and tenacity transcend systemic limitations.
Al Qubaisi believes that commitment, dedication, and passion are the essential qualities of a great racing driver. She emphasizes the importance of mental and physical preparation. “It’s always a challenge, but I train and work with my sports psychologist to ensure these demands never become a barrier,” she says. Her ability to remain focused and adaptable has been tested time and again, particularly during races where technical issues arise. “This year, I had to deal with an engine that had no power. It challenged me mentally, but it taught me to focus on my race craft and deal with whatever I have in the moment,” she reflects.
Amna Al Qubaisi recognizes the powerful role she plays as a role model for aspiring female racers. Her advice to young women is both practical and inspiring: “Never compare yourself to others. Accept and move on from losing a race, and focus on improving yourself.” She encourages resilience and a mind-set of constant self-improvement, acknowledging that the journey to success is filled with challenges. Al Qubaisi believes the motorsport industry is gradually becoming more inclusive, with initiatives like the F1 Academy offering female drivers valuable opportunities to prove their skill. “It’s becoming more normalized for women to compete,” she says, but she highlights that the lack of sufficient funding for women in motorsports is still a major hurdle. Al Qubaisi is hopeful that with continued support and opportunity, the sport will become an even more welcoming space for female talent to thrive.
While Al Qubaisi’s immediate goal is to excel in the F1 Academy, she doesn’t shy away from contemplating the ultimate dream: Formula 1. “F1 is a far shot,” she admits. “But if I had the correct amount of funding, I’d put in more than 100% effort to make it.” In the meantime, her focus remains on improving with each season and finishing on the top step of the podium.
Off the track, Al Qubaisi is a self-proclaimed homebody who treasures her downtime. “I love relaxing in my bedroom and sleeping in,” she says, citing the intense demands of her career as a reason to cherish moments of solitude. She also uses social media to connect with her fans and gain sponsorships, making it a vital part of her life as a public figure. “I like to involve the racing and motorsports community in what I do,” she adds.
Al Qubaisi’s heritage is a fundamental part of her identity, shaping both her personal life and career. As an Emirati woman competing in an international sport, she takes great pride in sharing her culture with a global audience. “My roots are very important to me,” she says. “I get to share my heritage with a community that isn’t very familiar with it and teach them about my traditions.” This cultural exchange not only allows her to represent her country but also serves to challenge and break down stereotypes surrounding Middle Eastern women. In a sport where few women from the region have made their mark, Al Qubaisi’s presence on the track highlights the diversity and richness of her background, defying expectations and opening doors for others. By embracing her heritage, she is reshaping the narrative about what it means to be an Arab woman in motorsports, solidifying her role as a trailblazer both on and off the track.
Amna Al Qubaisi’s journey is far from over. Whether it’s competing on iconic tracks like Monaco or inspiring the next generation of female racers, she remains steadfast in her mission to break barriers and redefine what’s possible. “My goal is to always do better than the last season,” she declares. With her unyielding determination, there’s no doubt she’ll continue to leave her mark on the world of motorsports, one race at a time.
For more stories of incredible people from the MENA region, visit the List 2024.
