Laleh Seddigh Explained

Laleh Seddigh (fa|لاله صدیق; born 1977 in Tehran) is an Iranian racing driver.^[1] She has been described as 'one of the most celebrated sportswomen in 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 conform to dress-codes.^[3]

Seddigh has said that she will not leave Iran as she is 'most effective' in promoting women's rights in Iran. 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]

See also

• List of famous Iranian women
• Iranian women's movement

Notes and References

1. Web site: LALEH BIOGRAPHY. lalehseddigh.com. 2019-10-19.
2. Web site: Iran's speed queen. Tait. Robert. 2007-03-04. the Guardian. en. 2018-05-05.
3. Girl Racer, BBC, 2008.
4. News: How one woman overcame Iran’s patriarchy to become its first female champion race car driver. 2015-11-20. Women in the World. 2018-05-05. en-US.
5. Web site: Iranian Racing Authorities Stall Woman's Fast-Track Career. RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty. en. 2019-10-19.