Molly Taylor prefers to focus on her passion for rally driving rather than the labels of “trailblazer” or “barrier breaker.” Her remarkable talent was showcased when she became the youngest winner of the Australian Rally Championship in 2016, making history as the first female champion. She followed this achievement with a victory in the Extreme E World Championship in 2021 alongside her teammate Johan Kristoffersson.
While Taylor shies away from the title of trailblazer, she embraces her role as a source of inspiration for young girls interested in motorsport. Early in her career, she recognised the impact of visibility and representation, especially when she noticed many young girls gathering around her car for autographs and photos. This prompted her to reflect on her own upbringing in a motorsport family, where such barriers were absent.
Initially uninterested in racing, Taylor’s passion was ignited when her father invited her to a rally school as she prepared to get her driving licence. This experience shifted her focus from horses to horsepower, leading her to pursue a career in motorsport more seriously. She sold her horse to buy her first rally car and quickly became a prominent figure in the sport, receiving enthusiastic attention from fans, particularly young girls.
Taylor believes in the significance of visibility for inspiring future generations, particularly those without a familial connection to motorsport. She hopes that her achievements can encourage young girls to explore opportunities in the field, whether as drivers or in various other roles, such as engineering and team management.
Molly Taylor is part of a larger movement within Australian motorsport, showcasing the contributions of women. This includes notable figures like Jessica Dane, Romy Mayer, and Riana Crehan, all of whom have paths in motorsport that inspire the next generation. Taylor also participates in initiatives like the FIA’s Girls on Track program, which aims to promote career opportunities in motorsport to young girls.
Feedback from the Girls on Track program indicates a positive trend, with more girls participating in Australian motorsport, particularly in karting. Taylor highlights that the initiative not only sparks interest in driving but also broadens awareness of various career paths within the industry.
In summary, Molly Taylor’s journey in rally driving exemplifies a commitment to her sport while recognising her role as an influencer for aspiring female racers. Her experiences underline the importance of representation and encouraging diversity in motorsport, paving the way for future generations to enter and succeed in a traditionally male-dominated field.