Key FIA figure departs ahead of F1 2026 season as new role emerges
Claire Dubbelman and Rui Marques spotted in the paddock at the 2025 Qatar Grand Prix
F1 deputy race director Claire Dubbelman has left her role at the FIA ahead of a move to Saudi Arabia’s national motorsport federation, PlanetF1.com understands.
Dubbelman spent almost nine years at the FIA, joining the governing body as championship manager in 2017.
F1 deputy race director leaves FIA ahead of Saudi Arabia switch
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She was promoted to the position of F1 sporting manager and deputy race director in February 2024, working alongside new permanent race director Rui Marques last season.
Her role saw her become the youngest-ever individual and the first woman to hold an FIA Super Licence for Race Directors.
Dubbelman’s contract with the FIA is understood to have expired on December 31 2025, with the highly regarded official leaving the governing body on very good terms ahead of taking a new role in Saudi Arabia.
PlanetF1.com understands that Dubbelman will join the Saudi ASN as part of the federation’s sporting and technical department.
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Saudi Arabia’s involvement in F1 has increased over recent years with the nation hosting a grand prix for the first time in 2021.
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, held at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, has held an early-season slot on the calendar since 2022.
Saudi Arabia is also thought to be targeting a second race on the F1 schedule in the coming years with a new circuit in Qiddiya.
Dubbelman has been a passionate campaigner for female participation in motorsport over recent years.
In a post to social media after securing the role of deputy race director last year, she wrote: “Becoming the first woman to hold an FIA Super Licence for Race Directors is something I’m incredibly proud of.
“It’s been a long journey filled with passion, dedication, and the support of so many amazing people around me.
“This licence isn’t just a personal milestone — it’s a step forward for everyone working to break barriers and build a more inclusive future in motorsport.
“Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.”
Additional reporting by Mat Coch
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