Saudi Arabian driver Reema Al Juffali has become a trend-setter and broken barriers in her country.
In October 2018, 26-year-old Reema became the first Saudi woman to earn a racer’s licence and participate in competitive racing. She will very soon compete in the final round of the MRF Challenge.
This came on the heels of removing a ban on women’s driving in Saudi Arabia. Prior to this in June 2018, the Saudi government gave women the legal rights to drive.
Women started driving in Saudi in June last year and my first race was in October. So, it’s like okay, this is not just a big step for Saudi women, but we can also have this (racing).Reema Al Juffali to The Hindu
She went on to elaborate on her passion for driving and car racing.
It started in college when I began watching Formula One and got familiar with racing. When I graduated, I gave myself a graduation gift with a three-day racing school in a Formula car.“It was an eye-filling experience.“That was the first time I was in a race car and that was the start of it.Reema Al Juffali to The Hindu
She is originally from Jeddah. Reema Al Juffali did her education abroad before moving back. She had become a fan of racing while studying Abroad, she decided to pursue it when she came back home.
Although Reema Al Juffali is being hailed as a change-maker, things have not been easy for her.
When I started, I only thought about myself and didn’t realise how my whole country was behind me. I was so humbled and honoured to be that person.“Like everyone else, I have my own goals, my passion, I want to become the best racer that I can be.“And the fact that I can inspire others, it’s unbelievable. That would push me to do even moreReema Al Juffali to The Hindu
All the best to you for all your upcoming races, Reema. We will be cheering for you from India!
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