The World Rally Championship has announced the three female drivers selected from its first women’s driver development program to receive a fully-funded drive at the Central European Rally.
Lyssia Baudet (Belgium, 21), Claire Schonborn (Germany, 25), and Suvi Jyrkiainen (Finland, 24) were chosen from a group of 15 finalists after a rigorous selection process.
They will be driving an M-Sport-built Ford Fiesta Rally3 at the penultimate round of the WRC season from 17-20 October.
The panel responsible for selecting the drivers included key figures in the rally world and motorsport industry.
After a thorough three-day training program in Poland, where the candidates were evaluated on various skills, the final decision was made.
One of the three drivers will be offered a full season in next year’s Junior World Rally Championship after competing in the Central European Rally.
Each of the selected drivers expressed their gratitude and excitement for the opportunity.
Claire Schonborn (left), Lyssia Baudet (centre) and Suvi Jyrkiainen (right)
Photo by: WRC
The organizers acknowledged the high level of competition among the candidates and expressed confidence in the selected drivers to represent women in motorsport.
The upcoming Central European Rally presents a challenging tarmac rally for the drivers, but with adequate preparation and support, the selected drivers are expected to excel.
The focus is on creating a professional structure and platform for the drivers to showcase their talents and inspire more women to participate in motorsport.
