The motorsport world has long been fueled by horsepower, adrenaline, and, let’s be honest, largely only men. From the pit lanes to the podiums, the industry hasn’t exactly been a poster child for gender diversity. But the tide is turning as more women make their mark—not just behind the wheel but in every role that keeps this high-speed spectacle running like clockwork.
While the idea of women in motorsport still raises a few eyebrows among the old guard, the numbers don’t lie. Women are taking over key positions, proving that skill, strategy, and a bit of grease under the fingernails aren’t exclusive to one gender. It’s all witnessed right here in the UAE, Dubai Autodrome—a subsidiary of Union Properties—isn’t just hosting world-class racing event but also becoming a stage for women rewriting the rules of the game.
This season’s Asian Le Mans was a testament to that shift. A third of the officials managing the event were women—a statistic that, just a decade ago, would have been a rare sight. Among them were Dr. Sandra Mrad and Maha Younes, two women who continue to thrive in this male-dominated industry, proving that the fast lane is open to anyone with the grit and passion to keep up.
Dr. Sandra Mrad: From the ER to the Pit Lane
Motorsport and emergency medicine might seem like worlds apart, but for Dr. Sandra Mrad, they go hand in hand—sometimes quite literally, given the nature of her job. A Lebanese Emergency Medicine Consultant at American Hospital, Dubai, she doubles as the Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Dubai Autodrome. Since 2022, she has been the first point of call when things go sideways on the track.
She ensures Dubai Autodrome’s medical and emergency response systems are top-tier, coordinates pre-hospital training, and oversees everything from rescue theory to scene management—all while balancing a full-time hospital job.
But beyond the chaos of crash scenes and high-pressure decision-making, it’s the sheer thrill of the sport that keeps her coming back.
“What I enjoy most about my role at Dubai Autodrome is the unique blend of emergency medicine and motorsports. Unlike a traditional hospital setting, working trackside puts me at the heart of the action, where quick thinking, teamwork, and specialised skills are essential to ensuring driver safety. The fast-paced nature of motorsports keeps me constantly engaged, and every event presents new challenges that require adaptability and precision.”
For her, motorsport isn’t just about safety protocols and emergency drills but also about witnessing history, up close and personal.
“Beyond the medical aspect, I find motorsports fascinating. Being part of a world-class racing venue like Dubai Autodrome gives me the opportunity to witness incredible talent, cutting-edge technology, and the sheer adrenaline that comes with high-speed competition. Knowing that my role plays a crucial part in making these events safer and more efficient is what truly makes my work fulfilling.”
She’s seen it all, but if she had to pick a favorite?
“The combination of speed, strategy, and endurance” is what makes the Asian Le Mans one of her most thrilling races to work on.
Maha Younes: Race Marshalling in a High-Octane World
If you thought marshalling was just about waving flags and looking official in an orange jumpsuit, think again. Maha Younes knows every inch of the Dubai Autodrome circuit—not as a spectator, but as a Race Marshall responsible for keeping races smooth, safe, and incident-free.
Originally from Syria, Maha has been part of the motorsport scene for six years, juggling her full-time job at a private company with weekends spent trackside, ensuring that every race runs like a well-oiled machine. It’s a job that demands sharp reflexes, rapid decision-making, and a solid understanding of race operations.
“My role is crucial in ensuring race safety and smooth operations. I work closely with teams to maintain race flow and respond quickly to any incidents on track. This job requires precision, teamwork, and fast decision-making to guarantee a safe and fair racing environment.”
But beyond the high-pressure moments, there’s something else that keeps her in the game—the motorsport community itself.
“Overall, I truly love this community—it feels like a big, united family, full of skilled and passionate professionals. The atmosphere is friendly, thrilling, and full of energy, with every race bringing new challenges and unforgettable experiences.”
Paving the Way for Women in Motorsport
Motorsport is changing, but change doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes trailblazers like Dr. Sandra and Maha—women who step up, take charge, and refuse to accept that some spaces are off-limits.
Dr. Sandra knows firsthand the challenges of breaking into a traditionally male-dominated field, but her message is clear: if you want it, go for it.
“My advice is simple: believe in yourself, embrace challenges, and never let stereotypes define your path. The world of motorsports medicine is fast-paced, demanding, and often seen as a male-dominated field, but that should never be a barrier. If you have the passion, the skills, and the determination, there is absolutely a place for you here.”
She also stresses the importance of mentorship—because no one climbs to the top alone.
“Seek out mentors who can provide insight, share experiences, and help you navigate your journey. The path may not always be easy, but the reward of doing what you love, making an impact, and breaking barriers is worth every step.”
Maha, too, encourages more women to step onto the circuit—not just as spectators but as active players in the industry.
“I encourage all women to join the world of motorsports! It’s an incredible opportunity to be closer to the action, work with amazing teams, and experience professional racing first-hand. Women have a place in every part of this industry, from officiating to technical roles and beyond.”
