The only woman to win an open Formula racing event — Desirée Wilson won the Aurora AFX Formula One Series race at Brands Hatch in 1980, the only female winner of an open Formula race to date, and a competitor in the 1980 British Grand Prix.
The only woman to win an open Formula racing event — Desirée Wilson won the Aurora AFX Formula One Series race at Brands Hatch in 1980, the only female winner of an open Formula race to date, and a competitor in the 1980 British Grand Prix. Formula 1 combines driver skill with engineering excellence to produce performance at the absolute limit of what is physically possible. Career highlights included Only woman to win an open Formula race (1980, Brands Hatch), 1980 British Grand Prix competitor, South African racing pioneer. The dedication required to reach and maintain elite level in formula1 is rarely appreciated by outside observers, yet Desire's record speaks precisely to that kind of sustained commitment. Across a career of sustained excellence, Desire established a legacy that endures in the record books and the broader history of formula1.
Only woman to win an open Formula race and compete in British Grand Prix
How They Played
Determined and skilled racing driver breaking gender barriers
Lasting Impact
Trailblazer for women in Formula 1 and motorsport
Only woman to win an open Formula race (1980, Brands Hatch)
Career Honours
- Only woman to win an open Formula race (1980, Brands Hatch)
- 1980 British Grand Prix competitor
- South African racing pioneer