Historic FIA Deputy Race Director Claire Dubbelman Exits for Saudi Role

Claire Dubbelman, the FIA's first female race director super license holder and current F1 deputy race director, is leaving the organization for a new role. She is reportedly set to join the Saudi Arabian motorsport federation in Riyadh, marking a significant shift in her career. Dubbelman made history in 2024 but has yet to direct an F1 Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

Dubbelman's departure is a blow to diversity and representation at the pinnacle of motorsport governance. As the first woman licensed to direct an F1 race, her presence was a symbolic step forward for the sport. Her move to Saudi Arabia also underscores the nation's strategic push to become a central hub in international motorsport, attracting key personnel from the FIA itself.

The details:

• Historic License: Dubbelman became the first woman to receive an FIA race director super license, qualifying her to lead a Grand Prix.
• Deputy Role: She served as deputy to current F1 race director Rui Marques and has not yet had the opportunity to direct a race herself.
• FIA Tenure: The Dutch official joined the FIA in 2017 and was promoted to the F1 deputy role in 2024, also working within the sporting department.
• New Chapter: Her new position will be with the Saudi Arabian motorsport federation, one of the organizers of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, based in the capital, Riyadh.

What's next:

The FIA will now need to find a replacement for Dubbelman, a key figure in the race control hierarchy. While her departure closes a chapter on a pioneering figure in F1, it opens a new one for Saudi motorsport as they continue to build their sporting infrastructure and expertise. Her move highlights the global mobility of top-tier motorsport professionals.