Indian motorsport is about to make history. Diana Pundole, a 32-year-old racer from Pune, is set to become the first Indian woman to race a Ferrari in an international championship. She will represent India in the Ferrari Club Challenge Middle East, competing from November 2025 to April 2026, behind the wheel of the Ferrari 296 Challenge, one of Ferrari’s most advanced and high-performance race cars.
The championship will be held on some of the world’s most famous Formula One circuits, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. It’s a major milestone not only for Pundole’s career but also for Indian motorsport, where women racers are still a rarity.
“It’s truly an incredible honour,” Pundole shared. “To represent India and race in a Ferrari on a global stage is a dream I’ve worked toward for years. I hope this inspires more women to follow their passion for racing.”
Pundole’s journey has been marked by determination and resilience. She began racing in 2018 through the JK Tyre Women in Motorsport programme, designed to encourage female participation in the sport. Over the years, she has competed in national-level races like the Indian Touring Cars and MRF Saloon Cars Championships, earning multiple podium finishes.
In 2024, Pundole made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a national racing championship, claiming the MRF Saloon Cars title after defeating several top male drivers at the Madras International Circuit. That victory catapulted her into the spotlight as one of India’s most promising racing talents.
Training for Speed and Precision
Diana’s rise to the global stage didn’t come easy. She trains intensively to handle the physical and mental demands of racing at speeds exceeding 250 km/h. Her preparation includes simulator sessions, endurance training, and studying track data from circuits like Monza, Mugello, and the Dubai Autodrome, where she has already gained valuable international experience.
Her entry into the Ferrari Club Challenge is supported by Aligned Automation and Ferrari New Delhi, partnerships that highlight growing global recognition of Indian racers.
Pundole credits her late father for sparking her love for motorsport. “Every race is a tribute to his belief in me,” she said. His encouragement continues to drive her forward as she breaks new ground in a sport long dominated by men.
As Diana prepares to compete on the world stage, she’s not just chasing trophies – she’s championing a new era of inclusivity in motorsport. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and pride for India.
