Emma Kimiläinen first female driver in STCC since 1999

Emma Kimiläinen has been confirmed to drive a Saab 9-3 for PWR Racing in this year’s Scandinavian Touring Car Championship, becoming the first female driver in the championship since Nettan Lindgren in 1999.
”I am both happy and thankful for the opportunity that I have been given by PWR, Saab and the partners of the team,” said Kimiläinen.

The 24-year-old Finn has previously driven single seaters and Radical in Scandinavia, with second position overall in Formula Ford Zetec Finland in 2006 and Radical Sweden in 2007.
”I think it is really nice that we can give a fast and exciting talent the chance in the team. We can now focus on developing the team long-term together with our partners and we are not closing the door on fielding a second Saab 9-3 during the year,” said PWR Racing Team Manager and driver of last year Daniel Haglöf.

While Kimiläinen has not raced full-time since 2009, in Formula Palmer Audi, the Finn is hoping to do well in her first ever STCC season.
”I love the Swedish racing culture and STCC feels like an obvious choice. It is of course going to be tough and the real challenge is that we have few test days. But I know what I have in me and we are going to introduce some femininity in the championship and give the boys a good fight. If we can score consistently and perhaps take a podium or two, then we can be happy,” said Kimiläinen.