Iron Dames return to Porsche power with new Manthey partnership

Established by Deborah Mayer in 2018, the pioneering Iron Dames initiative has repeatedly broken barriers and re-written records, becoming the first all-female crew to secure an FIA WEC race win and the first to finish runner-up in the championship in 2023. From 27 starts in the series to-date, the Dames have tallied seven pole positions and five podiums.

Manthey – which finished both first and second in the LMGT3 standings this season – is one of the most decorated and respected teams in international endurance racing, boasting more than 25 years at the forefront of the discipline that have yielded no fewer than seven FIA WEC crowns and multiple class triumphs in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Iron Dames are no stranger to Porsche machinery, having piloted a 911 RSR-19 to a history-making victory in Bahrain in 2023 – the final-ever LMGTE race. For their fifth consecutive campaign in the championship, the trailblazing trio will take to the track under the expert guidance of Manthey and in the all-conquering 911 GT3 R – with lofty aspirations.

“It’s an honour to once again compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship, which is the gold standard in global endurance racing,” acknowledged Mayer. “Returning to Porsche and collaborating with Manthey represents a new milestone for the Iron Dames. I have full confidence in Manthey’s expertise and dedication to excellence, which perfectly match our ambition to shine at the highest level.

“I am proud of what we have accomplished so far and confident in what lies ahead. We are committed to writing a new chapter in the Iron Dames’ endurance racing history, demonstrating that women have their rightful place at the top of the sport and inspiring generations to come.”

“We are proud to join forces with the Iron Dames in FIA WEC next year,” echoed Manthey Racing Managing Director, Nicolas Raeder. “We have always admired the project and have had many exciting but fair on-track duels with them in the past.

“We are confident that this is a great opportunity to develop together and reach a new level. With our experience in endurance racing and the tireless efforts of the Iron Dames, we are looking forward to 2025 and to bringing a Porsche in pink to the starting grid.”

On the driving strength, in-keeping with the Dames’ core values, there is a blend of experience and emerging talent. Seasoned racers Michelle Gatting and Rahel Frey remain on-board, while rising French star Célia Martin – who enjoyed a promising maiden campaign with the team in the Michelin Le Mans Cup in 2024 – completes the only all-female crew in the field, following Sarah Bovy’s recent promotion to ‘Silver’ status. 

“When I started my journey in motorsport, I always hoped that one day I could compete in top-level GT and endurance racing,” commented Martin. “If you had asked me for my ultimate dream, it would be this – FIA WEC, Iron Dames and to top it off with Manthey as well, it really is a dream come true. I can’t thank the Iron Dames enough for this opportunity and can’t wait for the season to begin!”