Long-time GT racer Vanina Ickx has joined the Iron Dames, alongside two young talents, bolstering the female-only motorsport project to 16 drivers across a range of disciplines.
Fourty-nine year old Ickx last raced at Le Mans in 2011, finishing seventh overall in a Lola-Aston Martin B09/60, run by Kronos Racing and Marc VDS Racing Team, alongside fellow Belgians Bas Leinders and Maxime Martin. This, her seventh entry in the French endurance classic, was her best result yet in the race.
Vanina Ickx is the daughter of six-time Le Mans winner Jacky, and is currently rated as a bronze driver by the FIA. Her full GT programme for 2025 will be announced at a later date.
“I like to go where I don’t expect, to reach my unreachable and to find out what I’m made of,” said the Belgian.
“This year, I’ll be made of iron! This new challenge made real by Deborah Mayer, is a gift from heaven, even if it won’t be easy to put on the helmet again at almost 50 years of age.
“I’m very curious to discover racing from this new angle, and enthusiastic about sharing my experience with younger Dames. With passion and determination, ladies, anything is possible! Don’t give up!” she concluded.
Dames looking to the future
Alongside Ickx, Iron Dames have also signed two young talents to the project. France’s Lisa Billiard and Spanish karter Angelina Simons, both 15 years old, will join the team’s ranks. Billiard impressed in karting and has moved up to F4, and will race under the Iron Dames banner in single seaters this year.
Simmons, meanwhile, will join the project’s karting roster, alongside Luna Fluxà, Vicky Farfus, and Mia Oger.
“I’m so happy and excited to be part of this big family!” said Billiard.
“I can’t wait to create memories and share unforgettable moments with all these amazing women.
“I’m delighted to be joining the Iron Dames and to be able to continue my career, which I started at the age of 7 with karting, to become a professional driver and to show that women are capable of great things in the world of motorsport.”
Meanwhile, Simons said: “I am very happy to join the Iron Dames and grateful for this opportunity. It’s been a long-awaited dream and now it’s coming true.
“I think there comes a time when you meet a project like Iron Dames and you just want to be strong, follow the path of the more experienced drivers and make them smile.”
