Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Senior engineers Hannah Schmitz and Laura Mueller will be honoured at next month’s Australian Grand Prix, with Turn 6 at Albert Park set to be named after them.
Schmitz serves as Chief Strategy Engineer at Red Bull Racing and has played a pivotal role in shaping race-winning strategies for Max Verstappen during the team’s recent championship campaigns. Her strategic calls from the pit wall have frequently influenced race outcomes, particularly in high-pressure title battles.
Mueller, meanwhile, made history in 2025 by becoming Formula 1’s first full-time female race engineer, working alongside Esteban Ocon at Haas F1 Team. Her appointment marked a significant milestone for female representation in senior technical roles within the sport.
The naming of Turn 6 forms part of the “In Her Corner” initiative, a collaboration between Engineers Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. It marks the first time in Formula 1 history that a circuit corner has been named in honour of women.
The 2026 Australian Grand Prix will open the new season on March 8, coinciding with International Women’s Day, further reinforcing the symbolic importance of the tribute.
“The ‘In Her Corner’ initiative promotes the importance of ‘if you can see it, you can be it,’” Mueller said.
“To be a part of this acknowledgement so early on in my Formula 1 career is an honour, and I hope it motivates girls and young adults to pursue a career in STEM.”
Schmitz highlighted the importance of early encouragement in shaping her engineering journey.
“I absolutely love my job and if you have the privilege of that choice also then make sure it’s the right role for you,” she said.
“At school I had amazing support and encouragement from teachers that opened my eyes to the world of engineering. They were my inspiration.”
She also reflected on representing her team on the podium as a defining experience, particularly during intense championship fights.
The recognition at Albert Park underscores Formula 1’s evolving landscape, where technical excellence and strategic leadership from women are increasingly visible at the highest level of global motorsport.
Read Also
Fernando Alonso enters his 23rd F1 season amid Aston Martin struggles and uncertainty over his future beyond 2026.
Mercedes signs 2023 F2 champion Theo Pourchaire as development driver ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season.
McLaren ranked lowest in fan poll ahead of F1 2026, with Mercedes emerging as favourite among the big four teams.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!