An Emirati racer breaks new ground on Asia’s elite racing stage, redefining representation in motorsport

Emirati racer Amna Al Qubaisi has made history in the Asian motorsport scene. In the 2026 season, she became the first woman to compete in the Pro class of the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia, a prestigious championship that brings together some of the region’s most skilled drivers.

Al Qubaisi made her debut at the opening round held at Shanghai International Circuit, part of the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, with racing officially starting on March 13, 2026. Her participation in the Pro class marks an important step in her career and further establishes her as one of the female drivers pushing boundaries in international motorsport.

In her debut season, Al Qubaisi joined Team Jebsen and drove the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, the standard car used in the championship. This one-make format places all drivers in identical machinery, making the competition highly dependent on individual skill, precision, and consistency on track.

This move is also part of her transition into GT and endurance racing. In 2025, she competed in the Ligier European Series alongside her sister, Hamda Al Qubaisi. The pair delivered a strong rookie season, securing three podium finishes and placing fourth overall, showing a smooth adaptation from single-seater racing to endurance competition.

Al Qubaisi began her career in single-seater categories, including two seasons in the F1 Academy with MP Motorsport. In 2023, she achieved two race wins and four podium finishes, ending the season in sixth place overall. She first gained international attention in 2019 after winning the F4 Trophy race at Yas Marina Circuit, becoming the first Arab woman to win a single-seater race and to stand on the podium in a Formula 1 support event.

Her latest chapter is supported by several partners, including Indonesian beauty brand Wardah Beauty. The partnership highlights not only support for her career but also the growing role of local brands in promoting female representation on a global stage.

Motorsport runs in her family. She is the daughter of Khaled Al Qubaisi, an experienced GT racer who has competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Inspired by him, Amna has continued to focus on GT and endurance racing, including her debut at the 24 Hours of Dubai in early 2026.

Ahead of the season, she has completed official test sessions and is preparing to compete against around 30 drivers from across the region and beyond. The championship will visit several major circuits in Asia, including Zhuhai, Fuji, Sepang, Marina Bay, and Bangsaen.

With this milestone, Amna Al Qubaisi is not only advancing her own career but also helping open more opportunities for women in professional motorsport.

photo source: instagram.com/amnalqubaisi_official

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