Schönborn’s uphill challenge ahead of CER

From the trio heading for the Central European Rally, Claire Schönborn has one of the most diverse backstories thanks to her chosen motorsport career path, which was remarkably different from any of her fellow finalists.

Whilst arguably the transition from karting or circuit racing to rallying is a common theme, the discipline shift from hillclimbing is less widespread. However, Schönborn is convinced her talents on the hills of her native Germany put her in a prime position to utilise the launchpad that is her WRC prize drive. The first woman to win a hill climb outright in Germany, the 25-year-old believes that those additional hurdles helped the process.

“In rally and hillclimb you have to be fast straight away, so my experience in hillclimb helped me a lot to be on pace right out of the gate,” she says.

“Even though the Golf [the car she uses on the hills] is front-wheel drive, the switch to all-wheel drive was very intuitive and “easy” for me.

“But I had a lot of respect for the shootout. I looked everywhere for test opportunities, especially gravel, which unfortunately did not work out. So, for the shootout, I had no experience on gravel, which made it definitely more challenging, but it went quite well for me.”

The nomination has significantly impacted Schönborn’s career objectives too. Previously focused solely on hillclimbs, she has now set her sights on a successful rally career and has tackled a round of the Opel e-Rally Cup. The shootout offered her a unique opportunity to fulfil her aspirations, and she is determined to make the most of it.

“So far, I have only raced in hillclimbs, but I had always wanted to drive a rally. With this new opportunity my goals have shifted. Beyond Rally is my big chance to make these goals and dreams come true and I will do everything to realise this dream.

“Our biggest preparation is right before CER, Jara [Hain, co-driver] and I will drive the Herbst Rallye in Austria the week before. This will be my second rally, and I will use it to gain more experience in the car, but above all in rallying.”

The opportunity in front of Schönborn has further cemented her belief that women like her can play a crucial role in shaping the future of motorsport. Her journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that dedication, talent, and passion can overcome challenges and lead to remarkable achievements.

“I think I am the best example of how you can get very far without experience but dedication and talent. If you are interested and passionate about something, you will go far.

“I hope that motivates women in this sport to just give it a go. I can only recommend it because I would never have thought that I would be standing here now and driving the CER as one of the finalists.

“In the end, we are all drivers who wear a helmet and do our best to win. It doesn't matter what your gender is.”