Moving up

As it enters its sixth season, Porsche Sprint Challenge GB continues to grow in strength. Drivers in four categories do battle in 18 races across six weekends – and one newcomer epitomises the excitement surrounding the championship. 

That Lydia Walmsley is one of four women on 2025’s Porsche Sprint Challenge grid is surely a sign of how times are changing in a traditionally male-dominated sport. ‘I was brought up around motorsport – my parents took me go-karting when I was seven years old, and all these years later here we are!’ laughs Lydia.

A broken leg, and even eyelid surgery following a karting incident aged just 10, served only to strengthen Lydia’s resolve. 

Her career progressed into car racing, and this year the 23-year-old drives the 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport in Britain’s leading one-make GT4 series, competing in the Clubsport Pro category. 

‘I tested the car last year and loved it. Porsche is a massive draw; the racing is exciting, and the Cayman is a confidence-inspiring car to drive. I’m really enjoying the challenge. Everyone’s got so much respect for each other on track – it’s one of the great things about the championship.’

Adapting to her new car and a different style of racing created a steep learning curve, yet Lydia has championship glory – and a rise up the Porsche motorsport pyramid – in her sights. 

'I don’t see myself as a female racing driver – just a racing driver. At this level I’m equal, but in the lower ranks the divide was obvious,’ she says. ‘I want to work towards making everyone feel welcome in motorsport, not just women, but anyone who doesn’t fit the stereotypical mould. You can’t be what you can’t see.’