Breaking into the upper echelons of motorsports has long been seen as a challenge for women—hindered by physical exertion, a historically androcentric field, and limited prospects. Yet, in the midst of this, Leona Chin’s story offers a refreshing counterpoint. The Malaysian motorsport star has carved out her place in a male-dominated sport with her skilful drifting execution and reactivity, proving that female competitors can excel just as fiercely on the track.
Chin’s fascination with cars and speed began as a personal interest, ignited by a friend’s influence. She regularly attended car events and indulged in go-kart racing and simulator racing, treating it as a fun pastime at first. Her turning point came when she discovered drifting, just on the cusp of her 20th birthday. “After securing my driver’s license, I decided to learn the basics of drifting, which eventually pushed me to participate in various drifting competitions. It fuelled my ambition to dive deeper into motorsports,” Chin says. “Soon after, I was headhunted by a team looking to form an all-female racing squad to represent women in endurance racing.”
Among her many milestones, Chin made history by competing as the only female driver in the 2024 Macau Grand Prix. Despite the tough conditions, she finds it empowering to have had the opportunity to represent women in such a gruelling race. “The rain dampened the track, and driving in wet conditions is incredibly intense. On top of that, the aggressive driving style of the competitors, combined with the tight corners, meant that I had to be extremely precise. You needed to memorise the track so well that every turn is second nature. There’s really no room for mistakes,” Chin recalls.
In addition to her podium finishes, Chin is a strong advocate for women in motorsports, mentoring up-and-coming drivers, supporting motorsport initiatives in Malaysia, and partnering with top automotive brands. Off the track, she immerses herself in simulators at RaceRoom Racing Experience in Ara Damansara, while managing her businesses and curating engaging content for her digital channels.
You’ve competed in various international events. Which race has been the most memorable for you?
I’ve competed in many events, but the most memorable one wasn’t a race—it was a car-related television show I participated in China as a foreign driver to represent Malaysia. When I joined the show, I faced a language barrier because I don’t speak Chinese very well, and they drive on the opposite side, which made it harder to adapt. The show tested not only our driving skills but also our physical endurance, with obstacles such as running, climbing, and other intense activities. It was three months of intensive shooting, which I really enjoyed, but I also suffered a serious injury. Sometimes, things happen, and you just have to accept them and stay optimistic.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a female driver and how did you overcome them?
I’ve met all kinds of people from different countries, and the way I’ve been treated varies greatly. Often, people don’t take women seriously in racing; they assume we’re not competitive, so they treat us as if we’re not a real threat. It’s almost like you have to prove yourself repeatedly. As women, it’s challenging because we’re physically not as strong as men. I have to train harder than they do. While they might get comfortable with the track in just two laps, it takes me five or six laps to get up to speed. I have to work twice as hard, both mentally and physically.
What changes would you like to see in the motorsports industry, especially regarding inclusivity and opportunities for women?
There were very few women in this industry when I first started. Over the years, I’ve seen the number of women in motorsports grow. When you put on the helmet, you’re just a competitor like everyone else on the track. I believe motorsports should be inclusive in that way because people need to realise that we’re all individuals in our own right. Everyone should be treated equally, regardless of whether you’re a man or a woman.
Before a race, how do you prepare mentally and physically?
I spend a lot of time practicing on a simulator. This helps me simulate the race experience, including different weather conditions, so I can adjust for wet or dry tracks. The main goal is to memorise the track, so I dedicate many hours doing that by drawing the track by hand on a large sheet of paper. I repeat this process to keep the track fresh in my memory. I also make sure to stay hydrated and warm up my body as thoroughly as possible.
What’s your guilty pleasure when it comes to cars?
I love turbocharged cars because they deliver much more power. The torque is incredible, and it feels amazing on track.
How do you unwind and recharge after an intense race or training session?
I usually go for a massage the next day or in the following days to recover. I focus on rehydrating, drinking more fluids that I may have missed during the race, and eating nourishing food as a way to pat myself on the back.
What’s your personal mantra that guides you, both on and off track?
Keep trying, stay persistent, and success will follow.
If you could race against any motorsport legend, past or present, who would it be and why?
I would really like to race against Lewis Hamilton. I think he’s the greatest of all time.
Do you like to drive or be driven?
I love being behind the wheel and I enjoy taking scenic routes whenever I can.
Photography by Anna-Rina
Hair & Makeup by Nicole Ng
Photoshoot Location at RaceRoom Racing Experience
