Maria Teresa de Filippis, a pioneer in motorsport, defied odds and broke barriers in a predominantly male domain.

Born into nobility on November 11, 1926, in Marigliano, Italy, Maria was raised in a cultured environment. Despite societal expectations, her love for sports, particularly horse riding and tennis, flourished from an early age. It was after World War II that she discovered her fervor for motorsport, a passion that ignited a remarkable journey.

At the age of 22, Maria embarked on her racing career, facing skepticism from her family and friends. However, her determination was unwavering. She claimed her first notable victory driving a Fiat 500, an accomplishment that fueled her confidence to pursue higher-profile events.

Maria’s talent shone brightly in the Italian sports car championship, capturing second place in the 1954 season. Her exceptional performance caught the attention of Maserati, earning her a coveted spot as a works driver. Competing in various races, including the prestigious Naples Grand Prix, Maria consistently displayed her skill behind the wheel, securing significant achievements.

In 1958, Maria boldly stepped into the realm of Formula One. Although challenges loomed, including Maserati’s official withdrawal from the sport, she fearlessly embraced the opportunity. While her debut at the Monaco Grand Prix didn’t yield the desired outcome, Maria made history at the Belgian Grand Prix by becoming the first woman to complete a Formula One race, a testament to her resilience and tenacity.

Despite encountering setbacks, including engine failures and gender bias, Maria’s passion for racing remained undiminished. However, the tragic loss of her team leader, Jean Behra, in 1959 marked a turning point in her career, prompting her eventual retirement from professional racing.

In the decades following her retirement, Maria found fulfillment in family life and continued her involvement in the racing community, leaving an indelible mark as a trailblazer for women in motorsport. Her legacy lives on as an inspiration to future generations of female drivers, embodying the spirit of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Re-reported from the article originally published in She the People.