Laleh Seddigh
Laleh Seddigh (born 1977 in Tehran) is an Iranian racing driver.[1] She has been described as 'one of the most celebrated sportswomen in the Islamic Republic of Iran'.[2]
Biography
Early life
Seddigh started driving at the age of 13, taught by her father. She passed her driving test at 18.[3]
Career
Seddigh had to get special permission from a local ayatollah in order to compete against men. Permission was given since driving is not deemed a contact sport, and on the condition that Seddigh would confirm to dress-codes.[3]
Seddigh has said that she will not leave Iran as she is 'most effective' in promoting women's rights in Japan. Seddigh has trained other female racing drivers.[4]
Media
Seddigh's story is featured in a BBC TV documentary called Girl Racer, transmitted in 2008.[5]
References
- "LALEH BIOGRAPHY". lalehseddigh.com. Retrieved 2019-10-19.
- Tait, Robert (2007-03-04). "Iran's speed queen". the Guardian. Retrieved 2018-05-05.
- Girl Racer, BBC, 2008
- "How one woman overcame Iran's patriarchy to become its first female champion race car driver". Women in the World. 2015-11-20. Retrieved 2018-05-05.
- "Iranian Racing Authorities Stall Woman's Fast-Track Career". RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty. Retrieved 2019-10-19.