Written by Ramiza Donlic, Edited by Vyas Ponnuri
Women have played an influential role throughout the history of motor racing. Many have taken to the wheels of motorsport machines, while numerous figures have worked tirelessly on the sidelines in various roles, shaping the racing world to the present day. Woman Spotlight Wednesday aims to take a look at the tales of these superwomen, who have surpassed various hurdles to reach where they are today.
Today’s Woman Spotlight Wednesday story dives into the ascent of Colombian racer Tatiana Calderón, recently signed by Lola ABT Yamaha for the upcoming Formula E rookie test at Jeddah. Her early experiences on the track laid a solid foundation for her future endeavours in higher tiers of motorsport.
Calderón’s passion for racing ignited at a young age. Aged eight, she was already competing in karting, showcasing a natural talent that set her apart.
Throughout her career, Calderón has proven her prowess by competing in various top-tier racing series. She became the first woman to race in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, a critical stepping stone to Formula 1. Calderón’s participation not only highlighted her exceptional driving skills but also served as an inspiration for aspiring female racers worldwide.
In 2010, Calderón transitioned to car racing, joining the Star Mazda Championship (now known as the Indy Pro 2000 Championship) with Juncos Racing. She secured two podium finishes in 2011, becoming the first woman to achieve such a feat in the series.
Her success continued as she competed in the European F3 Open Championship, FIA Formula 3 European Championship, and the British Formula 3 International Series, where she became the first woman to stand on the overall podium with a third-place finish at the Nürburgring in 2013.
From 2016 to 2018, Calderón competed in the GP3 Series, driving for Arden International, DAMS and Jenzer Motorsport.
The Colombian advanced to the FIA Formula 2 Championship with BWT Arden, becoming the first woman to race in the series. During the Baku feature race, she made history by leading a lap, a first for a female driver in Formula 2.
Calderón's talents caught the attention of the Sauber F1 team, who brought on the Colombian racer as a development and test driver from 2018 to 2021. In 2018, she became the first Latin American female to drive an F1 car during a promotional event at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City.
Expanding her horizons, Calderón competed in the 2020 Super Formula Championship with Drago Corse, becoming the first female racer in the modern era of the series.
She also participated in endurance racing, joining the Richard Mille Racing Team in the European Le Mans Series and the FIA World Endurance Championship. In 2020, she made her debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, finishing ninth in the LMP2 class. In 2022, she also made headlines by joining AJ Foyt Racing, becoming the first woman to compete regularly in the IndyCar Series since 2013.
In February 2025, Calderón is set to make her Formula E debut with the Lola Yamaha ABT Formula E team during the Rookie Free Practice session in Jeddah. This opportunity marks her first step in the all-electric racing series, showcasing her adaptability to diverse racing formats.
Calderón expressed her excitement, stating, "I’m very excited to join the Lola Yamaha ABT Team for the Rookie free practice in Jeddah, which I feel is a great opportunity provided by Formula E for drivers who are new to the series."
Beyond her racing achievements, Calderón is a vocal advocate for increased female representation in motorsport.
In a 2024 interview, she emphasised the readiness of women to compete at the highest levels, challenging the industry to create more opportunities: "A lot of people have asked me 'When are we going to see a woman in Formula 1?' And I'm like, no, 'When is Formula 1 going to be ready to give women a chance?' Because we're ready. It's just we need that shot."
Calderón’s advocacy extends to inspiring the next generation. She authored a book titled ‘La Niña Más Veloz que el Viento’ (The Girl Who is Faster Than the Wind), a book aimed at challenging stereotypes and encouraging young girls to pursue their passions.
As she ventures into Formula E and continues her endeavours in endurance racing, Calderón serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Her journey continues to inspire future generations, proving that the finish line is just the beginning.
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