In a world where racing is often viewed as a male-dominated sport, Diana Pundole, a mother of two and a teacher from Pune, has shattered the glass ceiling by claiming the national championship title in the saloon category at the MRF Indian National Car Racing Championship 2024, held in Chennai.
Diana’s journey to the top is nothing short of extraordinary. Her passion for racing ignited eight years ago when she received an unexpected call from Coimbatore inviting her to participate in a car racing championship. At that time, she was one of 200 women selected from across India to undergo rigorous trials as part of a national talent hunt. Despite facing skepticism and numerous challenges, Diana’s determination propelled her forward, eventually earning her a spot among the top six contenders.
The championship victory on August 18, 2024, was a particularly special moment for Diana, as it coincided with her birthday weekend. In a strategic move to ensure her focus, her coach had taken away her cellphone days before the race, causing her to miss all the birthday wishes. However, the sacrifice paid off handsomely when she emerged as the national champion. Upon turning on her phone after the race, she was met with an outpouring of love and congratulations from friends, family, and well-wishers.
Diana’s journey to the top was far from easy. She faced jeers and doubts from those who questioned her decision to pursue a sport that often overlooks female talent. Balancing her personal and professional life was a daily struggle, as she often had to miss tournaments to spend time with her children, who have been her strongest supporters throughout her journey. Despite these obstacles, Diana persevered, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Her love for racing can be traced back to her childhood, where she would watch Formula One races with her father. This early exposure sparked a passion that led her to frequent go-karting tracks. When the opportunity to compete in the Coimbatore championship arose, her brother encouraged her, and she seized the chance to prove herself.
Diana’s accomplishments are not limited to the national stage. She holds the distinction of being the first and only woman participant in the prestigious Indian Touring Cars mixed category, a fiercely competitive racing championship where most participants boast a minimum of 10 to 20 years of experience. Her impressive racing resume includes competing at world-renowned venues such as the Dubai Autodrome, the Hockenheimring, and the F1 Circuit de Spa in Belgium. She has also participated in high-profile races, including the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Ferrari 488 Challenge, BMW M2 Competition, and Renault Clio Cup.
Her meticulous approach to studying data and refining her driving techniques has been instrumental in her success on the track. Diana has also spoken openly about the immense financial pressures, the challenge of securing sponsors, and the mental strength required to perform at the highest level. Her unwavering dedication has not only earned her the national championship title but also broken down gender barriers in the sport, setting a new standard for women in Indian car racing.
