Who was Türkiye’s first female racing driver?

Samiye Cahid Morkaya, a name synonymous with Türkiye’s racing history, holds the distinction of being the country’s first female racer. Fueled by passion, she got behind the wheel in 1922, becoming the first woman in Türkiye to receive a driver’s license. Following this achievement, Morkaya went on to conquer the racetrack, emerging victorious in rally competitions and securing her place as a champion.

Istanbul’s streets, once ill-suited for cars in the 19th century, roared to life with a surge of automobiles in the early 20th century. This growth demanded more drivers, leading to the establishment of driving schools and licensing authorities. Morkaya became a member of one of these institutions and got behind the wheel for the first time in 1922.

Rally champion Morkaya

Morkaya took her first step into the racing world by participating in automobile races organized by the Turkish Touring Club. She won the title of Türkiye’s first female automobile racer. She made a name for herself by achieving success in the races organized in 1930-1931.

This was a male-dominated society, but Morkaya’s love for automobiles burned bright. She transformed this passion into action, entering races in 1930-1931 and etching her name among the champions. The 1930s saw Morkaya achieve significant milestones in her racing career. Notably, in 1932, she claimed her first victory on the 9.5-kilometer course between Istanbul’s Istinye Bridge and Zincirlikuyu.

Morkaya, who owned popular cars of that period such as Buick, Cadillac, Fiat, Nash and Ford, was also a member of the Turkish Touring Club. She also held the title of Türkiye’s first female car racer by participating in organized automobile races.

Morkaya, Türkiye’s first female racing champion

However, due to the reactionary mentality of the period, her achievements were not recognized and were even taken to court. The court confirmed Morkaya’s success and registered her first place.

Although Morkaya died in 1972, she still inspires many women. She is remembered as a woman who continued her passion for automobiles until the end and made history.