In sports, the pursuit of gender equity has undoubtedly been a challenging journey. Across various disciplines, female athletes have often encountered significant hurdles, ranging from pay disparities to limited opportunities on the grandest stages. Motorsport, long perceived as a male-dominated field, is no exception. Over the years, however, women have made considerable strides, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable environment. As the narrative within motorsport evolves, there has been growing awareness of the importance of advocacy, representation, and cultural change concerning women’s participation.
By definition, motorsport is a sport based on speed, skill, and determination. In this context, it is one of the few sports where physical size is not as much of a factor, theoretically allowing both men and women to compete on a more equal footing. However, this ideal has not fully materialized in practice, as societal attitudes, structural biases, and, in some instances, the physical demands of professional motocross have historically hindered this equal competition. As of 2022, women made up just 14% of motorsport participants, according to the Women’s Sports Foundation report. This statistic reflects not only the physical aspects of the competition but also deeper cultural and institutional barriers that have traditionally restricted women’s access to sports.
Despite these challenges, a new generation of advocates is working diligently to change the landscape. One such figure is Debbie Matthews, a former professional motocross racer who has become an influential voice in the movement for gender equality in motorsports. Her shift from racer to activist exemplifies the ongoing changes within the sport. Once regarded as one of the top racers in her field, Matthews has emerged as a prominent advocate, actively challenging gender disparities in the sport.
Photo Courtesy: Debbie Matthews
Matthews began her motocross career at a time when female participation was minimal, and professional prospects were virtually nonexistent. Competing against male peers, she consistently demonstrated impressive skill and resilience, earning respect in a sport that had historically overlooked the talents of women. While her on-track success was a significant achievement, it was the barriers she faced off the track—ranging from unequal sponsorship opportunities to limited access to competitive venues—that ignited her passion for advocacy.
Drawing from her experiences, Matthews transitioned from competitor to advocate, dedicating her efforts to promoting gender equity in racing. Her early work was crucial in creating better opportunities for female motorcyclists and ultimately led to the formation of the first Women’s Professional National Motocross Championship Series. This initiative provided a competitive platform for female riders and prompted the industry to reconsider its approach to gender equity.
Matthews’ impact extended well beyond event coordination. As Race Director for the inaugural Women’s Supercross Pro Championship, she played a key role in ensuring that women racers received the same professional treatment as their male counterparts, from track design to media coverage. Her influence within the sport was not merely administrative; it was cultural, signaling a shift not only in the present but also in the systemic changes that would impact the sport for years to come.
Recognizing the importance of education and mentorship, Matthews made it a priority to promote gender equality in motorsports through her Women’s School of Motocross (WSMX). By founding the first full-time motocross school dedicated to teaching women riders, Matthews sought not only to improve their technical skills but also to empower them. The inclusive and supportive environment she cultivated allowed aspiring female racers to pursue their dreams without the social prejudices that often surround women in racing.
Matthews’ contributions have had a lasting influence on the industry, with her most significant impact being the cultural shift she helped initiate. In recent years, the number of women participating in motocross has risen, with more women competing at professional levels than ever before. Much of this progress can be attributed to the opportunities Matthews has created through both competitive platforms and educational initiatives.
Today, Matthews stands as a symbol of gender equity in sports, using her platform to challenge societal norms and encourage women to overcome traditional gender-based constraints. Her leadership within organizations such as MXSports, which has played a pivotal role in restructuring women’s professional motocross, underscores her dedication to changing the system. Through her efforts to provide equal opportunities and access, she has set a new standard for gender equity within motorsports.
The progress made in motorsports has taught Matthews to embrace the roles of advocate and representative. Her evolution from athlete to activist illustrates the powerful impact one individual can have in reshaping a sport.
Today, the story of women in motorsport continues to evolve, although the pursuit of equality is still ongoing. According to the Women in Motorsport Commission, significant gaps in leadership roles and sponsorship opportunities remain, even as more women enter the sport. Matthews’ work, therefore, is focused on both creating opportunities and shifting mindsets.
Through her advocacy, leadership, and commitment to gender equality, Debbie Matthews has played a key role in transforming the landscape of women’s motorsports. Her journey from athlete to advocate highlights the resilience and determination required to break down gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
