F1 | Historic turning point at the Australian GP: unprecedented decision made official
The countdown to the opening race of the 2026 Formula 1 season is almost over. After completing nine days of pre-season testing, teams have gathered crucial data ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, scheduled for the weekend of 6–8 March 2026 in Melbourne. But this year’s event at Albert Park will not only mark the start of a new championship — it will also introduce a historic first for Formula 1.
A major and unprecedented change has been officially confirmed for the Australian GP, and it will make its debut during the first race weekend of the season. Here is what it’s all about.
Turn 6 at Albert Park to be dedicated to Laura Müller and Hannah Schmitz
Through an official statement and a series of social media posts, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation announced that Turn 6 at the Albert Park circuit will be dedicated to Laura Müller and Hannah Schmitz. It will be the first time in Formula 1 history that a corner is named in recognition of two female engineers.
Laura Müller has served as Esteban Ocon’s race engineer at Haas since the 2025 season, while Hannah Schmitz is the Principal Strategy Engineer at Red Bull. Both engineers have stood out in their respective roles, helping shape modern F1 history through their expertise, leadership, and on-track decision-making.
The initiative, called “In Her Corner,” was launched in collaboration with Engineers Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. The decision was made to celebrate International Women’s Day and to highlight the growing impact of women in motorsport and STEM careers.
The words of Laura Müller and Hannah Schmitz
In the official statement, Esteban Ocon’s race engineer Laura Müller said: “The ‘In Her Corner’ initiative promotes the importance of the concept ‘if you can see it, you can be it.’ Being part of this recognition so early in my Formula 1 career is an honour, and I hope it can motivate girls and young people to pursue a career in STEM.”
Hannah Schmitz also expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative: “I have always been curious to understand how things work, and I have always loved cars. For me, it has been an absolute honour to represent the team on the podium.”
The 2026 Australian Grand Prix will therefore not only kick off a new Formula 1 season but also mark a symbolic and historic step forward for diversity and representation within the sport, as Albert Park becomes the first circuit to permanently recognise the contribution of two leading female engineers.
Leave a Reply