Australian Grand Prix ‘In Her Corner’ Initiative to see Albert Park Circuit recognize women in STEM within Formula 1
February 23, 2026
The Australian Grand Prix has today announced that Turn 6 of the historic Albert Park Circuit will be named ‘In Her Corner’ ahead of the opening round of the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship on March 8, which coincides with International Women’s Day.
With the aim to inspire the next generation of engineers, TGR Haas F1 Team race engineer Laura Mueller has been named as one of the first to be recognized for their contributions. Alongside Hannah Schmitz, principal strategy engineer for Red Bull Racing, the ‘In Her Corner’ initiative is a new collaboration between Engineers Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. The program highlights the contribution of women currently shaping Formula 1 and aims to promote greater participation in engineering and STEM disciplines.
Mueller, race engineer to Esteban Ocon, joined TGR Haas F1 Team in 2022 and became Formula 1’s very first full-time female race engineer ahead of the 2025 season.
“Engineers Australia is proud to partner with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation to launch In Her Corner and name a turn on one of the world’s most iconic circuits after two women currently shaping Formula 1," shared Katherine Richards, Engineers Australia Chief Engineer. “In Her Corner celebrates the talent, leadership and drive of two engineers who are redefining what’s possible, not just in Formula 1, but across engineering, technology and business.”
“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,” added Laura Mueller, TGR Haas F1 Team Race Engineer. “To be a part of this acknowledgement so early on in my Formula 1 career is an honor, and I hope it motivates girls and young adults to pursue a career in STEM. It’s important to recognize women’s accomplishments in motorsport so far, and it’s great to be alongside Hannah for this.”
The 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship will see TGR Haas F1 Team commence their season at Albert Park, Melbourne, for the Australian Grand Prix, March 6-8.