Danica Patrick to Launch Groundbreaking Motorsports Academy for Women
December 19, 2024 – Beloit, Wisconsin
Danica Patrick, one of the most iconic figures in motorsports history, has announced the launch of the “Drive Her Forward Academy,” a pioneering initiative aimed at fostering the next generation of female talent in racing.
The academy, set to open in early 2025, will provide young women with hands-on training, mentorship, and resources to excel in motorsports, a traditionally male-dominated field. Located in her hometown of Beloit, Wisconsin, the facility will feature state-of-the-art simulators, a professional-grade racetrack, and workshops on everything from race strategy to sponsorship management.
Patrick, who shattered glass ceilings as the first woman to win an IndyCar race and the first to claim a NASCAR Cup Series pole, said the academy is her way of “giving back to the sport that shaped my life.”
“In my career, I often had to overcome barriers that had nothing to do with my skills on the track. I want to change that for future generations,” Patrick shared during the press announcement. “Drive Her Forward will be a place where passion and talent are nurtured, and where women can dream big without limits.”
The program will also focus on diversity, ensuring accessibility for participants from all backgrounds. Scholarships and partnerships with racing organizations will help young drivers transition into professional careers.
Fans and industry professionals alike have lauded the move, with many calling it a transformative step for motorsports. “Danica has always been a trailblazer, and this initiative reflects her legacy of breaking barriers,” said Chip Ganassi, a prominent team owner in IndyCar.
Applications for the academy will open in January 2025, and the first cohort is expected to begin training in March.
Danica Patrick continues to inspire, proving that her impact on the racing world extends far beyond
the finish line.
