Iron Dames welcomes three new drivers, strenghtening a legacy of excellence and diversity

Vanina Ickx Joins Iron DamesLeading this wave of new talent is 49-year-old Vanina Ickx from Belgium, a name synonymous with excellence in motorsport. Daughter of the legendary Jacky Ickx, Vanina has carved her own path in the racing world, earning respect for her skill, determination, and extensive experience. With her multidisciplinary background, Vanina represents a unique blend of heritage and ambition that aligns perfectly with the Iron Dames’ values. She will join the GT program, with further details about her racing schedule to be announced in due course.

Reinforcing Iron Dames Young TalentsThe Iron Dames project continues to champion the future of motorsport with the addition of two promising young talents: Lisa Billard of France and Spanish racer Angelina Simons, both of whom are 15 years old. After a promising start in karting, Lisa has already gained some experience in F4 and will join the ranks of the Iron Dames in single-seater racing in 2025. Angelina, who earned her spot through the highly competitive selection event held in Franciacorta in 2024, joins the ranks of karting rising stars Luna Fluxà, Vicky Farfus, and Mia Oger. Together, they form a powerhouse collective of young drivers who are poised to shape the future of racing.

Generational Diversity: A Core Value of Iron DamesThe addition of Vanina, Lisa, and Angelina highlights the diversity of generations within the Iron Dames, a characteristic that gives the project its unique richness and meaning. By bringing together seasoned professionals and emerging talents, Iron Dames champions the ideals of shared experience, mentorship, and the belief that every dream matters and every woman, regardless of age or background, can pursue it and succeed. 

Deborah Mayer, Iron Dames Project Founder: “We are happy to welcome Vanina Ickx into the Iron Dames family, she will bring legacy, passion and expertise to the team but also serve as an inspiration to every woman striving to make their mark in motorsport. Meanwhile, nurturing young talent is central to the Iron Dames project and to our mission. With Lisa and Angelina joining Iron Dames Young Talents, we are not only building a strong foundation for the future but also fostering an environment where mentorship and growth thrive. The transmission of knowledge and passion between generations is what makes the Iron Dames a family. We stand for the idea that dreams are timeless, and the journey of pursuing them is one that unites us all.” 

VANINA ICKX : "I like to go where I don't expect, to reach my unreachable and to find out what I'm made of. This year, I'll be made of iron! This new challenge made real by Deborah Mayer, is a gift from heaven, even if it won't be easy to put on the helmet again at almost 50 years of age. I'm very curious to discover racing from this new angle, and enthusiastic about sharing my experience with younger Dames. With passion and determination, ladies, anything is possible! Don’t give up!"

Vanina Ickx, born on 1975, in Brussels, is a professional Belgian racing driver and the daughter of motorsport legend Jacky Ickx. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and is known for her determination, curiosity, and adaptability. Her racing career began in 1996 with the Procar BMW Compact Cup. Among her notable achievements are a 7th overall finish at the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans (LMP1 Lola Aston Martin), two Le Mans Series podiums, and a victory at the Spa 12 Hours in 2008. She was an Audi factory driver in DTM from 2006 to 2007 and has competed in prestigious events like the Nürburgring 24 Hours and Paris-Dakar Rally. A versatile sports enthusiast, Vanina Ickx is also a proud mother of two children.

LISA BILLARD : "I'm so happy and excited to be part of this big family! I can't wait to create memories and share unforgettable moments with all these amazing women. I'm delighted to be joining the Iron Dames and to be able to continue my career, which I started at the age of 7 with karting, to become a professional driver and to show that women are capable of great things in the world of motorsport."

Born in 2008, Lisa discovered karting at 7 years old, inspired by her father. Her early passion led to multiple competitions, including national championships. In 2022, she became the first female to win a French Junior Karting Championship race and finished 5th overall. Representing France, she made her marks in the CIK Academy World Junior Championship, earning a podium in Italy. In 2023, she joined the Alpine F1 Team, achieving 3rd in the French Junior Karting Championship and participating in F4 testing. Her 2024 season focused on gaining F4 experience ahead of her 2025 goal: a top five finish in the French F4 Championship under the Iron Dames banner.

ANGELINA SIMONS : "I am very happy to join the Iron Dames and grateful for this opportunity. It's been a long-awaited dream and now it's coming true. I think there comes a time when you meet a project like Iron Dames and you just want to be strong, follow the path of the more experienced drivers and make them smile."

Born in 2011, in Las Palmas, Spain, Angelina discovered karting at 7, inspired by her father. At 9, she earned 2nd place in the Canary Islands regional championship, then competed nationally and across Europe with impressive results. At 12, she became Junior Vice Champion of Spain, excelled in prestigious events like the Iame Euroseries X30, and was selected by the F1 Academy to represent COTFA. Her journey is a testament to determination, with much more to achieve.