Iron Dames has confirmed departure from FIA WEC amid financial issues, as Alpine names Carmen Jorda as F1 Academy head.
The FIA WEC Entry List will be revealed soon — and when it is, you won’t see a Porsche entry under the Iron Dames banner. We know this may come as a surprise — and may feel emotional for some of our fans. But it’s a change by design — one that strengthens our long-term vision. This is the next step forward of a performance-driven project that never stops evolving and redefining the norm.
Since 2021 in FIA WEC, the Iron Dames have stood at the summit of world endurance racing — proving that talent has no gender, that determination moves mountains, and that women belong on the biggest stage of motorsport. As the only all-female line-up for five seasons, we didn’t just take part — we reshaped the narrative and left a cultural mark, with unforgettable moments like the historic Bahrain victory in 2023.
Racing is our ground, our drive, and still one of our strongest frontiers — and yes — we’ll be on many racetracks in 2026, Dames and young talents further strengthening the future of the project. The Iron Dames spirit has never lived on one grid only. Our journey taught us that standing still is never an option. Our purpose lives in the next step — in the mission to keep climbing, keep inspiring, keep dreaming big.
What began on track has grown into a powerful movement — one that reaches far beyond motorsport — and you are part of it. Your support fuels everything we do — today and tomorrow. The story continues! We keep you posted.
Porsche: Sad to read this but full of respect: The 2025 FIA WEC season was certainly a major challenge for the project. The partnership between #Porsche Motorsport and the Iron Dames is about coordinated promotion of young talents. In addition to the Porsche Junior Programme, this highly ambitious project to promote women in Motorsport is an excellent platform for young talents. This inspired us to enter into the partnership.
Carmen Joda, Alpine –
BWT Alpine Formula One Team and Qatar Airways have today announced the renewal of their successful partnership, with the multiple award-winning airline reaffirming its commitment to diversity and excellence as part of an expanded partnership to include the team’s F1 Academy entry. As part of the inclusion of the team’s F1 Academy entry, BWT Alpine Formula One Team welcomes Carmen Jorda in a new role as Head of Alpine F1 Academy and Qatar Airways Ambassador.
Jorda will lead female driver mentorship initiatives as part of BWT Alpine Formula One Team’s F1 Academy entry. Together with Qatar Airways and BWT Alpine Formula One Team, she will engage in fan experiences, and community outreach programmes that highlight the airline’s commitment to empowerment and excellence. Qatar Airways will support the team as Commercial Airline Partner, building on their established relationship over the past three seasons, with a special focus on the Qatar Grand Prix.
This weekend’s race at the Lusail International Circuit will include specialised branding on driver helmets and caps, along with a host of events during the race weekend to celebrate the continued partnership. The partnership will engage fans and global travellers through co-branded activations, guest experiences and exclusive branding opportunities including welcoming Qatar Airways Cabin Crew, pilots and guests to Grands Prix throughout the season.
Guy Martin, Global Marketing Director, BWT Alpine Formula One Team: “We are proud to announce the renewal of our multi-year partnership with Qatar Airways on the eve of the Qatar Grand Prix. Working with such a distinguished global carrier, whose dedication to excellence and diversity aligns closely with our own values, is a real honour. The inclusion of our F1 Academy entry and welcoming Carmen onboard reflects our shared dedication to empowerment.”
Qatar Airways SVP Sponsorship, Events & Exhibitions, Luke Drake, said: “We are proud to continue our partnership with the BWT Alpine Formula One Team and support Carmen Jorda’s appointment, which represents the very best of both aviation and motorsport – where skill and innovation unite to push boundaries. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to empowering women and inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in every field.”
Carmen Jorda, Head of Alpine F1 Academy: “I’m honoured to lead the female driver mentorship initiatives within the F1 Academy together with Alpine. I look forward to working with Qatar Airways and taking part in events close to the fans, as well as community outreach programmes that highlight the airline’s commitment to empowerment and excellence. This is a special moment for me as I return to Enstone, where my journey in Formula One first began.”
Other news –
TotalEnergies named sustainable fuel supplier of WRC from 2026 until 2028: https://www.fia.com/news/next-phase-fully-sustainable-fuel-wrc-confirmed-totalenergies-named-single-supplier-2026-2028
[The story is as per press release]
