Laura Mueller made history in January 2025 by becoming the first female Race Engineer in Formula 1®, taking on the role for Esteban Ocon at Haas. Since joining the team in 2022, Mueller has steadily progressed from simulator work to performance engineering before stepping up to race engineering, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s technical landscape.
Her first 18 months in the role have coincided with a period of regulatory change in Formula 1®, with Mueller and Ocon entering their second season together in 2026. This established partnership has helped them adapt to the new technical demands while maintaining a close working relationship. Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu has highlighted Mueller’s strong work ethic and problem-solving skills as key assets in her role.
Mueller’s responsibilities include detailed data analysis, session planning, and managing the complex and dynamic situations that arise during race weekends. While her position has brought unexpected media attention due to her pioneering status, she prefers to focus on the technical challenges and day-to-day demands of her job. Her presence in the paddock has also contributed to greater visibility for women in engineering roles within Formula 1®.
Recognition of female engineers in Formula 1® took a notable step in March 2026 when a corner at the Australian Grand Prix was named after Mueller alongside Red Bull’s Hannah Schmitz. This marked the first time female engineers received such an honor in the sport’s history. Mueller sees this as an important moment for inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in engineering and motorsport.
She encourages young women to approach their ambitions with confidence and resilience, emphasizing that obstacles should not deter them from entering fields traditionally dominated by men. Mueller’s journey reflects both her technical expertise and the gradual cultural shifts within Formula 1® towards greater diversity.
As the 2026 season continues, Mueller remains focused on her role supporting Esteban Ocon and contributing to Haas’s efforts on track. Her experience highlights the evolving nature of Formula 1® engineering and the increasing opportunities for women to take on key technical positions within the sport.
