Ickx is one of the most famous names in endurance racing and while father Jacky is a motorsport legend, daughter Vanina has also enjoyed success in her racing career, including class wins at the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps in 2004 and at the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2009 and 2010.
This season Vanina was tempted to come out of retirement with the Iron Dames and has partnered 2023 F1 Academy Champion Marta Garcia Lopez in the 2025 Michelin Le Mans Cup.
The season started at Barcelona for Marta Garcia's home race. However, the no83 Porsche was hit by another competitor during the race, resulting in a high-speed accident that badly damaged the car, bringing out the red flag. Fortunately, Marta was able to walk to the medical car and released from hospital the next day.
The fortunes of the Iron Dames improved in Le Castellet when Vanina Ickx qualified the Porsche in P2 and the team came home in fourth place, just six seconds off a podium finish.
Sadly, the no83 Porsche had to withdraw from Road To Le Mans due to Vanina not feeling well enough to race.
The Iron Dames crew are now fired up for the start of the second half of the Michelin Le Mans Cup, which begins with Vanina's home race at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps.
Q: The first half of the season has been a rollercoaster for you and Marta. How do you view the first races in Barcelona and Le Castellet and what positives do you take from those races?
Vanina Ickx: “A rollercoaster it was indeed! Both emotionally and sportively! The dramatic crash of Barcelona, the penalties of Paul Ricard and the retirement of Le Mans were hard to swallow. For all of us!
“Now we know that the pace is there, and the podium is within reach. Huber Proton is a strong team. We can rely on them to give us the best car and best driver support to perform given that we have a considerable lack of track time.”
Q: How and why did you get involved in the Iron Dames project? What are the main benefits you’ve witnessed from the work you and the team are doing?
VI: “I received a quite unexpected phone call last year after 14 years of retirement from racing, asking if I would like to test with the Iron Dames. Let’s say that I did not hesitate much! Next thing I know, I am sitting in the car at the start of the MLMC in Barcelona! Back in racing mode.
“I have been following the Iron Dames project since day 1. It is unique and bold. So much positive energy combined with performant teams is what ladies were missing to be competitive. Deborah made it happen. She can be proud.
“My job is to be at the level of the means deployed by the Iron Dames and inspire the next generation. C’est en bonne voie.”
Q: Next up is your home race at Spa-Francorchamps. You must have some fantastic memories of racing at Spa, both on and off the track. Can you tell us about what racing at home means to you?
VI: “As a Belgian racing driver, I have been spoiled. In my early career I would either race in Zolder or Spa. Stories about Spa are endless! Epic night stints in the rain and total fog! But there was a big shift when gravel beds were replaced by concrete. Little mistakes became more forgivable. Nevertheless, racing here is always challenging, exciting and emotional because, for the first time this season, my children will come and watch.”
Q: Spa has a reputation around the world as one of the most challenging circuits. What are your thoughts on the track and do you have a favourite corner or corners?
VI: “F1 has shown again this year that Spa reputation is putting a lot of pressure on the race director. No one wants to see and take responsibility for another horrifying accident. And yet drivers want to race. And spectators want the show. Difficult equation…
“Spa has a great rhythm and momentum. I like all the corners except the last chicane!”
Q: After missing the two races at Le Mans, this will be your third race in the Michelin Le Mans Cup for the Iron Dames in GT3. What would be a good result for you and the team in Spa?
VI: “It has been so long since I drove the car that I have the feeling to start form scratch again. We have not tested since Le Castellet, but a podium is what we need and deserve.”
