To mark International Women’s Day on Sunday 8^th March, the Women’s Speed Queen Kart Trophy 2026 brought girls and women together at BOX98, situated in Fontvieille, to share their passion for motorsport.

Created as a 100% female amateur event by the Women in Motorsport Commission of the Automobile Club of Monaco and BOX98 in Fontvieille, this unprecedented day from 10am to 4pm was designed to offer a moment of discovery, excitement, and connection in a welcoming, family-friendly and supportive atmosphere. The goal was simple yet powerful: to give girls and women the opportunity to experience the thrill of motorsport in a comfortable environment — and to show that even in a world traditionally dominated by men, there is truly a place for women on track.

Exceptional VIP Drivers Inspiring the Next Generation

• Ella Hakkinen – Rising Czech talent and Monaco resident, is the youngest female member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme, following major European karting victories.
• Vicky Farfus – Competing with Iron Dames and finished P4 in the FIA World Karting Cup 2025. The Monaco resident became the first girl in history to finish in the top five of a FIA karting race, among nearly 90 drivers from around the world.
• Lina Salamanca – Winner of the prestigious Volant Jules Bianchi, an emerging talent driven by strong ambition.
• Isla McKensie – Combining a career as an engineer with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team and a passion for karting competition, particularly in the KZ and historic categories. She has notably competed in high-level competitions such as the Senior Rotax Championship and the KZ2 category..

These girls were present to share their passion and expertise with the girls and women who came to participate.

Event Format

Each registration (27euros) included 8 minutes of track time, during which drivers set their fastest lap. There were various age categories racing :

• Kids : 7-13
• Junior : 14-29
• Senior : 30-45
• Masters : 45+

A lunch was offered by the Automobile Club of Monaco to participants at the Paddock Bar, then the final race for the “kids category” and the final for the Speed Queen. This was then followed by a prize giving.

The Automobile Club of Monaco trophies were presented by Tiffaney Perlino, President of the Women in Motorsport Commission ACM, Charles Flaujac President of the Karting Commission ACM, Celine Cottalarda Comite droits des Femmes, Ella Hakkinen, Vicky Farfus and Lina Salamanca.

Results

• The Winner of the Speed Queen Kart Trophy 2026: Madeline Lasalle
• The Winner of the Kids Speed Queen Kart Trophy 2026: Giulia Regis

The following won the best lap time in their category:

• Kids : Camille Spallarossa
• Junior : Carla Ackermann
• Senior : Madeline Lasalle
• Masters : Enriqueta Casanas Ficini

And the Team Trophy went to Martine and Carla Ackermann.

More Than a Race: A Shared Passion

Competing in a male-dominated environment, as is often the case in motorsport, empowers girls and women to feel comfortable and capable in similar environments beyond the track. These lessons inspire young participants and fans alike to pursue excellence in whatever field they choose — whether in engineering, business, or personal development.

Tiffaney Perlino, President of the Women in Motorsport Commission at the Automobile Club of Monaco says “Beyond competition, motorsport teaches dedication, teamwork, and resilience — qualities that mirror the lessons we apply in everyday life. Driving well builds confidence. Motorsport has an incredible ability to unite people from all backgrounds. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what language you speak. When engines start and the lights go green, everyone shares the same exhilaration.”

This Amateur Female Karting Trophy is more than an event. It is a statement: Motorsport is for everyone.