Guest blog by Thiemo Albers-Daly
France Souhaid is a Lebanese Rally Co-Driver and Interior Architect. Captivated by motorsport from a young age, she was inspired by some of those who paved the way for women before her such as Michele Mouton and Danica Patrick. Following in their footsteps and diving into the world of motorsport, France has done so with the tenacity to succeed.
France has gone on to become successful in a number of ways on and off track, such as securing the Women’s Cup, and when we caught up recently, we chatted about this, why the role of rally co-driver appealed to her specifically, how Lebanon is a hidden gem in the racing world, her favourite film and much more!
I hope you enjoy our conversation.
What first got you interested in the world of Motorsport?
As a child, I was always drawn to anything that involved speed and adrenaline.
I became fascinated with motorsport at a young age, and what really sparked my interest was seeing trailblazing women making their mark in the industry.
Women like Danica Patrick and Michele Mouton showed me that gender should never be a barrier to pursuing a passion for racing. Their determination and success in a traditionally male-dominated field inspired me to get involved. As I looked deeper into the world of motorsport, I found it to be a thrilling combination of skill, strategy, and teamwork that I was eager to be a part of. This initial inspiration has continued to drive my passion for motorsport, and I’m excited to contribute my own perspective and skills to this dynamic community.”
Your family were quite involved when you started – how did they help and do they still support you?
Yes, my family played a significant role in my early involvement in motorsport. They were incredibly supportive and encouraged my passion from the beginning. They attended races with me, provided valuable advice, and even helped with logistics and preparations. Their support was helpful in allowing me to pursue this interest wholeheartedly.
What is the motorsport world like in Lebanon? It’s not an area that gets a lot of global attention for motorsport.
The motorsport scene in Lebanon is a hidden gem, often overlooked on the global stage. While it may not receive the same level of international attention as some other regions, it shows a dedicated community of enthusiasts who have cultivated a vibrant and competitive atmosphere.
One of the standout features of Lebanese motorsport is the renowned Feghali family, a name that resonates internationally within the motorsport community. Their influence may be most strongly felt within Lebanon, but their legacy and achievements are acknowledged and respected on a broader scale, adding a distinctive and storied element to the local motorsport narrative.
Furthermore, the participation of the legendary Nasser Al-Attiyah, an important figure in the Dakar Rally, in the Rally of Lebanon is a significant endorsement of the event’s significance in the motorsport calendar. His involvement not only elevates the prestige of the rally within Lebanon but also draws attention from enthusiasts worldwide who closely follow his great career.
While it’s true that Lebanon’s motorsport world may not always enjoy the same global spotlight as other regions, it’s a dynamic and spirited community. The fervor and commitment of local enthusiasts, coupled with the occasional presence of internationally recognized figures like Nasser Al-Attiyah and the legacy of the Fghaly family, contribute to making the Lebanese motorsport scene a unique and cherished part of the broader motorsport landscape.
How would you describe your rally career so far?
My rally career has been a thrilling adventure filled with both triumphs and trials. Over the years
One of the most significant milestones in my journey was clinching the Women’s Cup, a title that had eluded Lebanon for two decades. This achievement stands as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination that have defined my career. It not only marked a personal victory but also broke down barriers for women in the world of rallying, proving that we belong on the track, competing at the highest level.
Why did you want to become a Rally Co-Driver specifically?
The role of a Rally Co-Driver really spoke to me for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a position that demands a deep understanding of the sport, not just in terms of driving, but also in navigation, strategy, and communication. This was interesting to my analytical nature and love for precision.
Additionally, the dynamic partnership between a driver and co-driver is something truly special. It’s a relationship built on trust, clear communication, and a shared goal of pushing the limits of performance. Being a co-driver allows me to play a crucial role in the success of the team, working in sync with the driver to tackle challenging terrains and make split-second decisions.
Tell me how 2023 has gone for you.
2023 has been a crucial year for me. It’s been filled with significant milestones and opportunities for growth. I’ve taken on new challenges in my career, pushing the boundaries of what I thought was possible.
What are your ambitions for the future?
My ambitions for the future in rallying as a co-driver are quite clear. I aspire to continue perfecting my skills and knowledge in this dynamic sport, aiming for higher-level competitions and more challenging terrains. I’m committed to building strong partnerships with drivers, fostering trust and seamless communication on the track.
Do you see yourself as a role model for other women and how does that impact how you act?
Absolutely, I see myself as a role model for other women in the world of rallying. Knowing that I’ve broken barriers and achieved milestones in a field that has historically been male-dominated is a responsibility I take seriously. It’s an honor to inspire and pave the way for other women who aspire to excel in Motorsport.
Additionally, I’m conscious of the impact my actions can have on breaking down gender stereotypes and promoting inclusivity in motorsport. It’s a motivating factor that drives me to continue pushing boundaries and proving that success in this field is not limited by gender.
Do you have a favorite film?
Fast and Furious, holds a special place in my heart. The high-speed races, adrenaline-pumping action, and the tight-knit crew of characters make it a thrilling and unforgettable cinematic experience. It’s the kind of movie that really speaks to my love for speed and excitement. The “Fast and Furious” series has become iconic in the world of cinema, capturing the hearts of fans around the globe.
If you could design the interior for any building in the world, which building would you choose and why?
If I were given the chance to design the interior of any building in the world, I would undoubtedly choose a Motorsport museum. This choice is a true reflection of my profound love for adrenaline and the rush that comes with it. By crafting the interior of such a museum, I could seamlessly intertwine my dynamic career and beloved hobby, creating a space that beats with the same passion that fuels both aspects of my life.
Thank you again to France for taking the time to chat and wishing you the best of luck for the rest of 2023 and beyond.
Follow France’s motorsport career on Instagram @france_souhaid
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