At just 15 years old, Sophia Zara isn’t your average teenager. While most are navigating school life and weekend plans, Sophia is making waves on Malaysia’s racing circuits, speeding past norms and expectations with unmatched drive. As the country’s youngest female race car driver, she’s not only eyeing a spot in the prestigious F1 Academy but also breaking records, stereotypes, and barriers along the way.
Born to Race
Sophia’s journey into motorsports began almost as soon as she could walk. Growing up in a family where both her parents raced, the track was a second home. Her father, an auditor, and her mother, a businesswoman, both carried a deep passion for the spot, making it almost inevitable that Sophia would follow suit.
“Both my parents used to race, and my dad still does,” she said. “I grew up watching them at the track, and I was always drawn to the speed and competition.”
A trip to a karting track with her mum at the age of 5 and a half marked the start of it all. She began racing go-karts by age of 7 and was already competing internationally by 8.
“I transitioned to cars when I turned 12 and began attending track days and receiving coaching sessions. I haven’t looked back since.”
Speeding Into the Spotlight
Her official track debut came in August 2024. The same year, she partnered with her dad in three major events, MCS Round 3, MCS Round 4, and the gruelling Sepang 100km (S1K) endurance race. Despite being only her third race, Sophia finished an impressive fifth in S1K, earring her a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records as the youngest female podium finished in an endurance race.
“It’s such an honour to be recognised in this way, and it motivates me to keep pushing further,” she said.
Since then, she has continued to climb the ladder of competitive racing. In the Malaysia Speed Festival, she secured 5th place in Round 1 of the Myvi Cup. In the Toyota Gazoo Racing Sporting Class, she placed 8th against seasoned competitors. But perhaps one of her most memorable achievements was in the Malaysia Touring Car Championship (MTCC), where she overcame car issues to finish 3rd in the MT2V Category, again making her the youngest female podium finished in a sprint race.
Her success isn’t just about trophies, Sophia is charting new territory in a male-dominated sport and changing the narrative for girls in motorsports.
“If anything, my biggest obstacle has been my age,” she shared. “I wasn’t selected for a rookie program because they felt I was too young. But instead of being discouraged, I saw it as motivation.”
Training Like a Pro
Behind the scenes, Sophia is as disciplined as she is daring. She trains with her coach twice a week, focusing on strength, core stability, and endurance. She also does regular track day sessions and carefully reviews race footage to sharpen her skills.
“I also do track day sessions to test my times and improve. Reviewing race footage is a huge part of preparing mentally for the next race,” she explained.
Her sights are now set on a wildcard seat at the F1 Academy during the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix, an opportunity that could get her onto global stage.
“Being nominated for the wildcard seat is a huge honour,” she said. “It shows that Malaysian drivers can compete at an international level. I hope this opens more doors for future racers in Malaysia.”
But her ambitions don’t stop at F1. Sophia dreams of racing in GT cars and hopes to compete in the Porsche Carrera Cup with her long-term goal being represent Malaysia globally.
“In five years, I want to be racing internationally, representing Malaysia, and showing girls everywhere that they can do this too,” she declared.
Juggling Academics and Ambitions
Balancing a blossoming racing career with school might seem impossible, but Sophia makes it work. She follows an IGCSE curriculum and is on her school’s principal’s list.
“School is my top priority. I’m on the principal’s list, so I need to make sure I’m excelling there, too. Balancing racing and academics isn’t easy, but I’ve learned to manage my time well.I plan everything out in advance, like my study time, track days, and races. If I have a race, I bring my books and do my homework during the downtime. It’s all about making sure I stay on track with both,” she said.
Sophia doesn’t just race, she fences, rides horses, and even ice skates. She’s a gold and bronze medalist in fencing at the SUKMA Games, and she’s also completed Grade 8 in ballet. On top of that, she’s learning to play the violin and is already working towards Grade 3. It’s this wide range of interest that sharpens her focus and sets her apart.
“I don’t have much free time, but I make sure to stay active. Ice hockey is super fun, and I love horseback riding whenever I can. It’s all about finding the balance and enjoying what you do,” she added with a laugh.
Sophia’s story isn’t just about the podiums or race cars, its about passion, determination, and pushing boundaries.
“I don’t feel any form of pressure. I’m just enjoying the ride,” she said.
To all the other young girls with big dreams, Sophia offers a simple yet powerful advice,
“My advice to young girls who want to follow their dreams is to just try it. Chase your dreams, even if the path is different from others. That’s what makes us stand out.”
With every lap she takes, Sophia Zara is not just chasing a dream, she’s paving the way for the next generation of fearless, fast, and focused women in motorsports.
Sources: WeirdKaya
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