Melbourne, Australia – February 25, 2026 – In a landmark decision for Formula 1, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation has announced that Turn 6 at the Albert Park Circuit will be renamed in honor of Hannah Schmitz and Laura Mueller. The dedication, set to take place during the upcoming Australian Grand Prix, marks the first time a circuit corner has been named after two women, a significant step towards greater inclusivity within the sport. The announcement coincides with International Women’s Day, further amplifying the initiative’s message.
The decision recognizes the groundbreaking contributions of both Schmitz, Head of Race Strategy at Red Bull Racing, and Mueller, Race Engineer to Esteban Ocon at Haas F1 Team. Both women have risen to prominent positions within their respective teams, breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of engineers and motorsport professionals. This isn’t simply a symbolic gesture; it’s a tangible acknowledgement of their expertise and influence in a historically male-dominated field.
A First for Formula 1
The renaming of Turn 6 is part of the “In Her Corner” initiative, a partnership between Engineers Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. The initiative aims to inspire young women to pursue careers in engineering, highlighting the achievements of female role models within motorsport. The core principle behind “In Her Corner” is the idea that visibility is crucial – “if you can see it, you can be it,” as Mueller herself stated. This initiative seeks to shine a light on the accomplishments of women in engineering, encouraging more to enter the field.
Schmitz’s career with Red Bull began in 2009, initially as a modeling and strategy engineer. She progressed to Senior Strategy Engineer in 2011 and was promoted to Principal Strategy Engineer in 2021. Her strategic calls have been widely credited with contributing to Red Bull’s success in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, playing a key role in numerous victories and podium finishes. Notably, Schmitz is one of only eleven women to have stood on the Formula 1 podium to accept the Constructors’ trophy, a testament to her impact on the team’s performance.
Mueller made history at the start of the 2025 season by becoming the first full-time female race engineer in Formula 1. Working alongside Esteban Ocon at Haas, she has quickly established herself as a highly respected and effective engineer. Ocon has publicly praised her work, describing her as “awesome to work with” and noting her “very impressive” trajectory. Her appointment signaled a significant shift in the sport, demonstrating a growing commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Beyond the Recognition: The Impact on the Sport
The significance of this recognition extends beyond the individual achievements of Schmitz and Mueller. It sends a powerful message to aspiring female engineers and motorsport professionals, demonstrating that opportunities exist at the highest levels of the sport. For years, Formula 1 has faced criticism regarding its lack of diversity, and this move represents a proactive step towards addressing those concerns.
The Australian Grand Prix, traditionally held in March, is a key event on the Formula 1 calendar. Albert Park, the circuit’s location in Melbourne, undergoes a significant transformation each year to accommodate the race, becoming a focal point for motorsport fans from around the globe. The renaming of Turn 6 will add another layer of significance to the event, providing a visible symbol of progress and inclusivity. The event is a major draw for tourism to Melbourne, and this addition is likely to further enhance its appeal.
Schmitz emphasized the importance of finding a role you love, stating, “I absolutely love my job and if you have the privilege of that choice also then develop sure it’s the right role for you.” She also highlighted the importance of early encouragement, recalling the support she received from teachers who opened her eyes to the world of engineering. Mueller echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the power of visibility and representation.
What’s Next for F1 and its Commitment to Diversity
The “In Her Corner” initiative is expected to continue beyond the renaming of Turn 6, with plans for further programs and initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in motorsport. Engineers Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation are committed to fostering a more inclusive environment, providing opportunities for women to excel in all areas of the sport.
The 2026 Australian Grand Prix, scheduled to take place from February 27th to March 1st, will be a pivotal moment for Formula 1. The dedication of Turn 6 to Schmitz and Mueller will serve as a constant reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that remains to be done. Fans attending the race, and those watching from around the world, will witness a historic moment that celebrates the achievements of two remarkable women and inspires a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts.
The next major event on the Formula 1 calendar is the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, scheduled for March 6th-8th. Teams will be looking to build on their performance from pre-season testing and the Australian Grand Prix as the championship battle intensifies.
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