Saudi Racer Farah AlYousef Makes F1 Academy Debut, Inspires Female Drivers at Jeddah Grand Prix
April 18, 2025
This weekend's race not only represents a personal milestone for AlYousef but also a significant moment for female representation in Saudi motorsport.
Recognized as a rising star in Saudi motorsport, AlYousef won the Saudi Women’s Karting Championship in 2022 and participated in the SWS World Finals, marking significant advancements for female representation in the sport.
AlYousef is focused on gaining more experience in single-seater racing and aims for further victories in the coming years, demonstrating her commitment to advancing her motorsport career.
Farah AlYousef, a 22-year-old Saudi Arabian racer, is competing as a wildcard entry for Hitech in the F1 Academy at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit this weekend.
Her journey in motorsport has been remarkable; she became the first Saudi female to qualify for a race in the Formula Woman series and later impressed professionals with her performance, leading to her qualification for the F1 Academy.
The F1 Academy, a development series for female drivers aged 16-25 launched in 2023, provides a platform for progression in international motorsport, with Jeddah hosting Round 2 of the 2025 calendar.
Feeling the pressure of representing Saudi women, who have only been able to obtain driver's licenses since 2018, AlYousef aims to inspire young girls in her country through her achievements.
Significantly, AlYousef's mother, who does not drive and has never wanted to, will be present to support her, highlighting a cultural shift in Saudi Arabia since women gained the right to drive.
In addition to her participation in the F1 Academy, AlYousef is also set to represent Saudi Arabia at the FW Nations Cup Finals in Dubai in May 2025.
After moving to the UK for further training, she fast-tracked her skills in various weather conditions, enhancing her experience as a driver.
Her recent testing at the Corniche Circuit led to her successful qualification for the F1 Academy, showcasing her rapid improvement and dedication to the sport.
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah is known for its high-speed action and is one of the fastest street circuits globally, marking the fifth edition of this prestigious event.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

Motorsport.com • Apr 18, 2025
Home comforts – Farah AlYousef representing women of Saudi Arabia in F1 Academy
Autosport • Apr 18, 2025
Home comforts – Farah AlYousef representing women of Saudi Arabia in F1 Academy
Saudigazette • Apr 15, 2025
Farah Al Yousef to race as Wild Card entry in F1 Academy at Saudi Arabian Grand Prix