ALBERT Park will lay claim to becoming the first Formula 1 circuit in history to name a corner after a woman – or in this case, women.
Ahead of the upcoming 2026 Australian Grand Prix, it has been announced that Turn 6 of the Melbourne track will be dedicated to Laura Mueller and Hannah Schmitz as part of an initiative dubbed In Her Corner.
Mueller is the first full-time female race engineer in F1 history, operating directly with Haas’ Esteban Ocon, while Schmitz is well known as Red Bull’s head of race strategy.
“I absolutely love my job and if you have the privilege of that choice also then make sure it’s the right role for you,” said Schmitz.
“I was always curious about how things work and loved cars. At school I had some amazing support and encouragement from teachers that opened my eyes to the world of engineering, they were my inspiration.
“For me it has been an absolute honour to represent the team on the podium.
“In Qatar last season, it was incredible to be in the fight for the driver championship, witnessing the way everyone came together as a team was something very special to be a part of.”
Mueller said: “The In Her Corner initiative promotes the importance of ‘if you can see it, you can be it,’ so the more we can all do to shine a light on the overall achievement of women in engineering is a great thing.
“To be a part of this acknowledgement so early on in my Formula 1 career is an honour, and I hope it motivates girls and young adults to pursue a career in STEM.
“It’s important to recognise women’s accomplishments in motorsport so far, and it’s great to be alongside Hannah for this.”
The 2026 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will be held across March 5-8, with the opening day dedicated to Supercars and Carrera Cup Australia.