UAE driver Hamda Al-Qubaisi selected for top Formula 3 test

ABU DHABI: In a boost for women drivers, the UAE’s Hamda Al-Qubaisi has been selected to take part in a Formula 3 test on Sept. 16 at Magny-Cours in France.

As part of a campaign to provide women access to the FIA’s single-seater competition, the 20-year-old Al-Qubaisi, a Formula 4 and regional racer, will be testing for a full day, to introduce her to the F3 category’s cars and different set-ups.

The Emirati racer secured her maiden overall podium finish in the Italian Formula 4 Championship in 2021, becoming the first and only woman to achieve that result.

Al-Qubaisi said: “I’m thrilled to be invited by the FIA F3 promoters to take part in this high-profile test. It is a very strong message in acknowledging female drivers and I would personally like to thank Bruno Michel for the opportunity.

“It means a lot to be acknowledged for my efforts and achievements in motorsports and offered the chance to test this amazing machine,” she added. “It is a natural progression in my career, and I aspire to drive in this championship next season, if all goes well.

“More importantly, I look forward to experiencing and getting a feel of this car, which has more power and downforce than the car I’m currently competing in. I have been working very hard on my physical fitness to cope with the extra g-force and feel confident that I will be able to handle it well.”

Al-Qubaisi is considered an outstanding global talent. She comes from a racing family that includes her father Khaled, an accomplished and respected figure in UAE motorsport, and sister Amna, who races in Formula 3 and is a member of the champion PREMA Team. The trio represented Abu Dhabi Racing together in this year’s Formula Regional Asian Championship.

“A lot of