DirtFish makes history with the launch of its Women in Motorsport Driver Programme, naming Aoife Raftery and Michele Abbate as its first-ever selected drivers..
On the eve of International Women’s Day, DirtFish Rally School, the world’s premier rally school, has taken a bold step towards advancing women in motorsport with the launch of its Women in Motorsport Driver Programme. This historic initiative, a first in DirtFish’s 15-year history, aims to elevate female talent in rallying and beyond.
After a global selection process, Irish rally driver Aoife Raftery and American circuit racer Michele Abbate have been named as the programme’s inaugural drivers. Both athletes are set to play pivotal roles in shaping the future of women in motorsport, bringing skill, ambition, and international recognition to the DirtFish name.
Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Motorsport
As part of their new roles, Raftery and Abbate will also feature as key panelists at the DirtFish Women in Motorsport Summit, taking place on May 24 at LeMay – America’s Car Museum in Tacoma, Washington. Now in its third year, the summit is a cornerstone event in the movement to increase female participation in racing.
“This is an incredible opportunity to further women’s representation in motorsport,” said Raftery. “With hard work, determination, and the ambition to break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport, being part of the DirtFish Women in Motorsport programme inspires women everywhere. I want to show that no obstacle is too great when passion and persistence are involved. I’m excited to illustrate that the world of motorsport is waiting for them, and to motivate the next generation of female drivers to pursue their dreams fearlessly.”
A Defining Moment for DirtFish and the Sport
The launch of the Women in Motorsport Driver Programme represents a defining moment for DirtFish and the industry at large.
“This is definitely one of the biggest moments in the history of DirtFish. And one of the proudest in my career. The DirtFish Women in Motorsport Driver Programme is the next step. We are so proud to announce Aoife and Michele as our first drivers. Michele has an outstanding and record-breaking pedigree on the circuits of America and Aoife is a leading female force in the rallying world and is a rising star from Ireland with global ambitions, making waves across Europe and beyond. We are delighted to have such an ambitious name join our programme, enhancing our mission to empower women in motorsport.”
Raftery: A Rising Force in Rallying
At just 24 years old, Aoife Raftery has made a name for herself as one of the most promising drivers in international rallying. Hailing from Craughwell, County Galway, Ireland, she has rapidly progressed through the ranks, competing in the Junior European Rally Championship (Junior ERC) in 2023. Her 2024 season was marked by a class win at the Ulster Rally and a podium finish in the Junior British Rally Championship final round.
Reflecting on her journey, Raftery credits the unwavering support of her team and mentors.
“My journey in motorsport has been backed by so many great people. To my family, friends, partners and my previous experience gained working with the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, I thank them all. It is now a new and exciting time to continue my progress in rallying.”
A New Era for Women in Racing
This announcement has been met with enthusiasm from across the motorsport community.
“This is really exciting news for Motorsport Ireland,” said Aiden Harper, President of Motorsport Ireland. “It is a great announcement, Aoife is our Road Safety Ambassador and we are very proud of the direction her career is taking.”
With DirtFish, Raftery, and Abbate leading the charge, the road ahead for women in motorsport has never looked more promising. This is just the beginning.
Aoife Raftery is supported by: DirtFish | Motorsport Ireland | Spain’s Coach and Mini Bus Hire | O’Neill O’Malley Architects and Project Managers | Des Lyons Plant | Cannon Concrete, Oranmore | EARS Motorsport |Kenny | (Peugeot) Galway | PW Plant Sales | Thatch Bar, Oranmore | Loughrea Auto Parts | Lateralus B | Kerry Motorsport News
