Laura Mueller and Hannah Schmitz are the first women to have an F1 corner named after them

Formula 1 has reached a historic milestone with Laura Mueller and Hannah Schmitz becoming the first women to have a circuit corner dedicated to them at a Grand Prix event. Turn 6 at the Australian Grand Prix will bear their names in celebration of International Women's Day, marking a watershed moment for representation in the sport's technical and strategic departments.

Excellence in engineering and strategy

Schmitz's credentials are equally formidable. Her strategic acumen proved pivotal during Red Bull's dominant 2022 and 2023 seasons, where her strategy calls were crucial in securing multiple victories and podium finishes. In a sport where split-second strategic decisions can determine championship outcomes, Schmitz has consistently demonstrated the analytical precision and tactical foresight required at motorsport's pinnacle.

The "in her corner" initiative

This recognition occurs within the broader context of the 'In Her Corner' initiative, a partnership between Engineers Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation designed to inspire the next generation of engineering talent. The programme embodies a simple but powerful philosophy: "if you can see it, you can be it."

Mueller herself has emphasised the initiative's importance, stating: "The more we can all do to shine a light on the overall achievement of women in engineering is a great thing". For a young professional so early in her F1 career, having a circuit corner bear her name sends an unmistakable message to aspiring engineers—particularly young women—that the pinnacle of motorsport is within reach.

Inspiring the next generation

Both engineers have stressed the importance of mentorship and representation. Schmitz credits her school teachers with opening her eyes to engineering possibilities, highlighting how crucial early encouragement proves for career trajectories. Her advice to young professionals is equally telling: "if you have the privilege of that choice also then make sure it's the right role for you."

Katherine Richards, Engineers Australia Chief Engineer, framed the achievement as celebrating "talent, leadership and drive of two engineers who are redefining what's possible, not just in Formula 1, but across engineering, technology and business". This recognition transcends motorsport, signalling broader cultural shifts within STEM fields.

The naming of Turn 6 represents far more than ceremonial recognition—it embodies Formula 1's evolving commitment to inclusion and the visible demonstration that excellence in engineering knows no gender. For aspiring engineers watching from the grandstands at Melbourne, Mueller and Schmitz provide compelling proof that the sport's most demanding technical roles are accessible to those with determination and talent.