Trailblazing Triumph: Ana Carrasco's Historic Ascent to Motorsport Supremacy

Oct 21, 2024 at 2:42 PM

Trailblazing Triumph: Ana Carrasco's Historic FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship Victory

In a groundbreaking moment for motorsports, Ana Carrasco has etched her name in history by becoming the first-ever FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Champion. This remarkable achievement not only underscores Carrasco's exceptional talent but also signifies the growing recognition and support for female competitors in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

Defying Odds, Inspiring Change

Humble Beginnings, Trailblazing Feats

Carrasco's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. Her racing career began in 2009 when she won the 125cc Championship in the Extremadura Championship. In 2011, she made history by becoming the first female rider to score points in the 125cc CEV class, a feat she repeated the following year in the inaugural Moto3 format of the same championship. Graduating to the Moto3 World Championship in 2013, Carrasco continued to shatter glass ceilings, becoming the first woman to score points in the lightweight Grand Prix class and achieving a best result of 8th in Valencia.

Embracing New Challenges, Rewriting History

After four years in the MotoGP paddock, Carrasco embraced a new challenge in 2017 by joining the WorldSSP300 series. This move proved transformative, as she made history in 2018 by becoming the first woman to win a motorcycle World Championship. Carrasco's success continued, as she finished third in WorldSSP300 in 2019 and raced in the class for two more years before returning to Moto3 for the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

The Defining Season: 2024

In the 2024 season, Carrasco faced fierce competition from her main rival, Maria Herrera, particularly during Race 2 at Portimao, where the last-lap battle for the lead was intense. Their rivalry not only showcased their incredible talents but also captivated fans and added excitement to the Championship. Out of the 11 races held so far this season, Carrasco has secured 2 pole positions, 12 podium finishes, and recorded 4 wins, all while consistently showcasing her speed with multiple fastest laps. Her impressive performance culminated in her historic championship victory, cementing her place in motorsport history.

Carrasco's Reflections: Triumph and Perseverance

In the aftermath of her historic achievement, Carrasco expressed her elation, stating, "I'm super happy, honestly. Really, happy because it's been a difficult season. We had to manage a lot both on and off the track. I gave my best in every race, every weekend, to try to achieve this result. I couldn't be happier right now. Being World Champion once is incredible, but twice is something else entirely—crazy, even. My team did a fantastic job all season. They pushed me a lot to achieve this, and for me, they are the best. I want to say thanks to them and to all the people around me because I came from a difficult season with injuries and bad results. At times, it was hard to keep believing, but I had many people around me helping me improve. This title is for all of them."Carrasco also praised the efforts of Dorna and the FIM in establishing the FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship, acknowledging the challenges faced and the success of the inaugural season. "The championship was something really new for everyone, and we had to adapt. Everyone was a bit nervous at the start because it was such a new experience, but I think Dorna and the FIM did an amazing job. We had a really good championship, with a high level of competition and a lot of great races. I think the fans, especially those watching on TV, enjoyed it a lot. So for me, it was a successful season for everyone."

A Beacon of Inspiration

Carrasco's achievement is a testament to the progress being made in inclusivity within motorsport and serves as an inspiration to future generations of female riders. The establishment of the FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship has provided a platform for women to compete at the highest level, and Carrasco's historic victory is a significant milestone in this journey.As the motorsport community eagerly awaits Carrasco's plans for the next season, her story continues to inspire and pave the way for greater diversity and representation in the sport. The future looks bright, and Carrasco's legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of motorcycle racing for years to come.