Mistakes and defeats roll off Paola Ramos: focus is on 2027

When Paola Ramos turned up with a wildcard at the season finale of the 2025 Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship – WorldWCR for short – in Jerez, the Spaniard had been away from racing for four years – and sensationally won the second race. As a result, the 19-year-old was signed by the Forward team for 2026.

Many of the international circuits are new to Ramos, yet she has secured two wins and five podium finishes in ten races. However, she has also suffered four retirements, which is why the teenager, currently fourth in the World Championship, trails leader Maria Herrera by over 100 points.

Donington Park two weeks ago was a case in point. Although Ramos was unfamiliar with the circuit in Leicestershire, she started from second on the grid and finished second on the podium in the first race. She had to serve two long-lap penalties for a false start.

“When I was shown the double long-lap penalty, I didn’t understand it at first,” Ramos admitted. “Overall, though, I’m very happy with how the weekend went. It was my first time at Donington. In Race 1, I fought my way back after the penalty, which I’m very proud of. Finishing second in my first race at this circuit is fantastic. Unfortunately, Race 2 didn’t go to plan, as a collision with another rider prevented me from crossing the finish line.”

The rider who forced Ramos off the track was world champion Maria Herrera! The 29-year-old was handed a six-second time penalty as a result. “Incidents like this are part and parcel of racing, and the most important thing is to stay focused and look ahead,” said Ramos, putting the incident behind her.

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Ramos is indeed looking ahead: in the 2026 WorldWCR, the Catalan driver wants to lay the foundations for a title challenge. “We’ve gathered a lot of information, including for the coming season, because that’s what it’s all about: gaining experience and knowledge,” emphasised the Forward driver. “We’re now heading into a break, which I’ll use to continue training and prepare as well as possible for Jerez – a circuit that means a great deal to me and where I always feel competitive. I’ll be competing there with the firm determination to give my best and fight for victory.”