Lella Lombardi

Lella Lombardi, born on March 26, 1941, was a pioneering Italian racing driver who made her mark in the world of Formula One. Competing in seventeen Formula One World Championship Grands Prix from 1974 to 1976, she became the second woman ever to qualify for the prestigious series, following in the footsteps of Maria Teresa de Filippis.

Notably, Lombardi is the only female driver to have scored points in Formula One, achieving this remarkable feat by earning half a point during the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix. Her accomplishments extended beyond Formula One; she was the first woman to qualify and compete in the Race of Champions at Brands Hatch, showcasing her versatility and talent in various racing formats.

In addition to her Formula One career, Lombardi excelled in sports car racing. She claimed victory in the 1979 6 Hours of Pergusa, the 1979 6 Hours of Vallelunga, and the 1981 6 Hours of Mugello. Furthermore, she finished second in her class at the 1976 24 Hours of Le Mans, solidifying her status as a formidable competitor on the track.

Lombardi's legacy continues to inspire generations of racers, significantly influencing the role of women in motorsport and reshaping perceptions of female drivers in the racing industry.