Women in Motorsport: Belen Garcia Espinar

In this edition of Women in Motorsport, we talked to Spanish racing legend, Belén Garcia. She was raised around motors her whole life and has been competing to be a champion most of her life. Ms. Garcia is an engineering student and former pole vault competitor, Belén is no stranger to hard work. She hopes to bring home the 2021 FIA Formula 3 W Series Championship in her Tatuus T-318! We sent her some questions about being a woman in the motorsport world, here are her answers.

How did you get started in racing?

“I first had a little motorbike at 6. At 9 I tried karting and I loved it, but it wasn’t until I was 15 that I started racing at a National level in Spain. Then I did 4 seasons of the karting Spanish Championship and in 2019 I had the chance to compete in F4 Spanish championship. That gave me the possibility to do the selection tests of W Series, that eventually selected me to race in 2020.”

Who inspired you to start racing?

“Racing has always been part of my life. My parents own a timekeeping company called Al Kamel System which works in prestigious championships such as Formula E, FIA WEC or IMSA. My dad raced in motocross, GT racing and rallies so I’ve always looked up to him.”

What challenges have you faced as a woman trying to find your way in the sport?

“I think the main challenge is physical shape. I am very tiny so I have to be in very good shape all the time to be able to drive the car well to its finest. I work out quite a lot to achieve that.”

What are your goals behind the wheel and off the track?

“My main goal is to be able to race for many more years. It is a difficult world to get into and it is difficult as well to have the opportunity to continue racing.”

What is your favorite vehicle you’ve raced?

“My formula 3, for sure. I have raced for a short period of time and my current car is the best I’ve driven to date. I’m looking forward to try many other cars in due time.”