Female Supercars driver Simona de Silvestro out to inspire in her first NZ race

  • 03/11/2017

Nissan Supercars driver Simona de Silvestro is excited for her first time racing in New Zealand at this weekend's Auckland SuperSprint.

The 29-year-old is in her first year of a three-year deal with Nissan Motorsport, the first full-time female driver in Supercars.

The Swiss-born racer is passionate about motorsport and has plenty of experience on the world stage, including IndyCar and Formula E.

De Silvestro admits the adjustment to life in the Supercars has been challenging this year. Being the only female driver is nothing new to her, but her ultimate goal is to inspire other females.

"Most of the time in my career, I have been the only female, so it's nothing new to be," she said. "But it is cool to do this in Australia and show anything is possible, if you are passionate about something.

"I think motorsport is a really good platform. It is not the first sport a girl goes into, but I was really passionate about racing, and that's why I wanted to become a driver and worked hard for it.

"Now, here I am in Supercars, so it shows, in any other job, that if you really want to do it, work hard for it and you should be able to achieve it - that is the biggest message."  

The 29-year-old is currently 24th in the Drivers' Championship.
The 29-year-old is currently 24th in the Drivers' Championship. Photo credit: Getty Images

The 29-year-old is currently 24th in the Drivers' Championship, heading into the New Zealand leg of the Supercars.

Her best finish was 13th, which she has achieved twice at Phillip Island earlier in the year.

"This year has been okay. The results could have been better, but it just shows the level of the Supercars is high and competitive.

"Hopefully, we finish the year strong, but I have learnt a lot during the year. Next year will be better, after I know the tracks and a year in the Supercars."

De Silvestro believes the fast track at Pukekohe suits her style and is looking forward to getting out on the racecourse.

"The track looks tricky and quick, so I think it will be interesting, not having many practice sessions," she said.

"The racing seems really good around here and I'm looking forward to it.

"Every track is new, every time I go to it, so it is a feel kind of thing.

"But faster tracks suit me better, so hopefully we have a good weekend here."

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