Introduction
In celebration of the French Grand Prix, the eighth round of the Formula One World Championship, Renault provided Saudi racer Asil Al-Hamad the opportunity to drive the "Lotus E20" at the "Le Castellet" circuit in France. Al-Hamad is the first woman to join the board of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and to participate in the French Grand Prix after a decade-long hiatus.
Race Details
The car she drove is the same one that Finnish driver Kimi Raikkonen used to win the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2012. On June 5, Asil participated in practice sessions in the Formula 1 car under the guidance of experts from the Renault Sport Formula 1 team.
Asil Al-Hamad's Statements
Michelle Mouton, a former rally driver and chair of the Women's Commission for Motorsport, expressed her hope that Asil's example will pave the way for more women to enter the world of car racing.
A Rare Opportunity
Regarding her rare opportunity, Asil Al-Hamad stated, "I have been passionate about racing and motorsport since a very young age, and driving a Formula One car exceeds my wildest dreams." She added, "It is truly an honor to have the chance to drive the Lotus E20 in France. I hope this experience—occurring on the same day that women are allowed to drive in the Kingdom—demonstrates what can be achieved when you have the passion and spirit to dream."
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