‘Love of racing’: From childhood dream to the Time 100 stage for Amna Al-Qubaisi

DUBAI: Emirati racing driver Amna Al-Qubaisi has spoken of how her “love of racing” led to her fulfilling big dreams by attending the inaugural TIME100 Sports Gala in New York last week.

The event  on Thursday came just weeks after the 26-year-old became the only Arab to make TIME’s inaugural TIME100 Sports list.

Her inclusion placed her alongside sporting icons including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Victor Wembanyama, Carlos Alcaraz, Caitlin Clark and Lando Norris, recognizing not only her achievements on the track but also her growing influence beyond competition.

“It all began with a dream and a love for racing. I had no idea where this sport would take me. I just knew this is what I wanted to do,” Al-Qubaisi said.

“Being recognized on the TIME100 list is something I never imagined growing up. It’s a reminder that the biggest dreams begin with one small step.

“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who believed in me along the way.”

The first Emirati woman to compete professionally in international motorsport joined some of the world’s biggest sporting names and celebrities at the event.

The participants included Prince Harry, Jalen Brunson, Alex Morgan, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Lindsey Vonn, Olympic champion Alysa Liu, Olympic snowboard champion Chloe Kim, and NBA Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg.

The inaugural gala celebrated athletes and changemakers whose influence extends beyond competition, during an evening that offered a rare glimpse of athletes away from competition, with many swapping jerseys and race suits for designer looks on the red carpet.

Throughout the evening, speakers including James, Brunson, Morgan, Prince Harry and Liu reflected on the power of sport to inspire communities and create