DUBAI: Emirati racing driver Amna Al-Qubaisi has been named among Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports for 2026, earning a place alongside some of the biggest names in global sport.
The inaugural list, unveiled this week by Time, recognizes athletes, executives, innovators and leaders who are shaping the future of sport both on and off the field. Among those featured are basketball legends LeBron James and Stephen Curry, football superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, tennis champions Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark and Olympic champions from across the sporting world.
For Al-Qubaisi, the honor marks another milestone in a trailblazing career that has seen her become one of the Middle East’s most prominent motorsport figures and an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the region.
“I’m incredibly proud of this recognition by Time for being on the list of 100 most influential sports figures 2026,” Al-Qubaisi said.
“This has proved that 12 years of persistence has been noticed and I was so emotional when I heard about it. I hope this inspires many girls in the Middle East that if I can do it, so can they.”
Al-Qubaisi’s inclusion places her among a select group of motorsport figures featured on the list, alongside Formula One race winner Lando Norris, Mercedes rising star Kimi Antonelli and Formula One Academy Managing Director Susie Wolff.
Over the past decade, the Emirati driver has broken barriers in a sport traditionally dominated by men, becoming the first Emirati female racing driver and representing the UAE on some of the world’s most competitive racing stages.
Al-Qubaisi also expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her journey in motorsport.
“Motorsport has given me incredible opportunities, challenges and memories, and I’m grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey,” she said.
“To be recognized alongside so many inspiring athletes, leaders, and changemakers is truly special.”
Her honor comes during a period of unprecedented growth for women’s sport worldwide. Time’s list includes some of the most influential female athletes of this generation, including basketball star A’ja Wilson, boxing champion Amanda Serrano, Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon, football star Trinity Rodman and tennis world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
By joining such company, Al-Qubaisi’s latest accolade highlights not only her achievements on the track but her growing influence beyond competition.
The achievement carries additional significance as Al-Qubaisi was the sole Arab representative included on Time’s inaugural sports list, underlining the impact of her journey on both Emirati and regional sport.
As the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global destination for major sporting events, Al-Qubaisi’s inclusion among Time’s most influential figures serves as another example of homegrown talent earning recognition on the world stage.
For the Emirati racer, however, the honor represents something more personal; recognition that more than a decade of dedication, sacrifice and perseverance has made an impact far beyond the racetrack.
And for countless young girls across the Middle East, her message remains simple; if she can do it, so can they.
