Ornella Ongaro, Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team
French, 33
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A True French Racing Pioneer
French rider Ornella Ongaro has had a remarkable racing career, marked by her determination to compete from a very young age. She made history in 2011 as the first French woman to race in Ireland’s North West 200, having risen through the junior ranks in France. After some time away from the track, Ongaro has returned this year to participate in the inaugural WorldWCR season, and she’s thrilled to be back in action.
A Colorful Career in Racing
Ongaro’s journey began at the age of five when she received a PW 50 for her birthday. Just over a year later, she was already competing in races. She quickly became a multiple junior champion at the regional level in France and went on to secure second place in both the French cadet championship and the pit bike championship. In 2009, she claimed second place in the French 125cc championship and became the first French woman to receive a wild card for the 125cc French Grand Prix, although she did not qualify for the race. In 2011, Ongaro made history again as the youngest French rider and the first French woman to compete in the North West 200 in the 600cc category. She went on to win the French Women’s Championship in the 500cc class in 2016, took third in the French 500cc Championship against male competitors, and became the first woman to win a race in the French 500 CBR Cup in its 20-year history. In 2017, she placed eighth in Italy’s 1000cc R1 Cup in the mixed category and first in the women’s class. More recently, Ongaro has competed in electric motorcycle races and European events, continuing to train hard and enjoy motocross riding.
Overcoming Early Challenges
The 33-year-old from Cannes initially had a rough start to her riding career. Ongaro recalls, “I come from a family passionate about motorcycles. My dad did motocross, my sister had her PW, and I wanted mine too. My mom, although scared of motorcycles, agreed to let me ride. But when I first got on my PW, I accidentally accelerated towards a tree. My mom stopped me, breaking her scaphoid in the process. It traumatized me, and I didn’t want to ride anymore. After my mom went to the hospital, I stayed with my grandparents. But a few months later, I watched my sister ride, and the urge to get back on the bike returned. I quickly became faster than the other kids, and that’s when it all really started.”
Forming a Female-Only Racing Team
In her early 20s, Ongaro founded an all-female racing team, a groundbreaking move in the male-dominated sport. “I created the team in 2014,” Ongaro explains. “It was composed of a mechanic, a data technician, and myself as the rider. We established the Go Girls Only Team and competed in the 600cc French Championship. Unfortunately, we couldn’t continue due to a lack of belief in our project at the time. It was a professional team, no different from a mixed team.”
Racing at the North West 200
Ongaro’s participation in Ireland’s North West 200 in 2011 was a significant achievement, marking her as the first French woman to compete in the event. She returned in 2012 and fondly remembers the experience: “I wanted to add something extra to my achievements, so I decided to try road racing. The first year, I went with a mechanic, Brice, who is now with Tech3. We were just two young people starting out. The two years went really well—I was the best newcomer, the fastest French rider, and the best female competitor. After that, I focused on circuit racing, but if the opportunity arises, I’d love to do it again, including the Isle of Man TT.”
Inspired by Racing Legends
When it comes to her inspirations, Ongaro names Marc Marquez and Mick Doohan as her favorites. She says, “I have great memories with Marc Marquez on the track. Despite his success, he’s remained kind and friendly. I admire his talent, passion, and resilience, especially after his injuries. Mick Doohan was my first idol—I was fascinated by his riding style and determination. I even convinced my parents to buy me his replica boots. Later, I became a huge fan of Valentino Rossi, even though my family supported different riders. These legends have all influenced my racing career.”
Continuing the Legacy
Ongaro’s career is a testament to her passion for racing and her ability to break barriers in the sport. As she continues to compete, she remains an inspiration to many, proving that dedication and perseverance can overcome any obstacle.
A Close Bond with Her Niece
Ornella Ongaro shares a special connection with her young niece, who lives with her and whom she considers almost like a daughter. Ongaro says, “She’s five and a half now, and certain experiences have deepened our relationship. Naturally, after being around so many motorbikes, she wanted to try them out, but I don’t want to push her.” The love for motorcycles seems to be running in the family, with Ongaro’s niece being one of her most enthusiastic supporters. Ongaro adds, “At first, she just wanted to see Auntie race, and even if I finished last, she would congratulate me. Now, she’s beginning to understand more; she gets on the bike and pretends to ride. You can see she’s starting to enjoy it. When I come back from a race, she says, ‘It’s good to be sixth, Auntie, without training!’ She’s so little, but she’s right. Her words lift my spirits and make me feel more positive. Since she lives with me, I take her to the circuits when there’s no school.”
Believing in Dreams and Giving Everything
As a trailblazer in racing, Ongaro is proud to inspire the next generation of young French and international riders, especially in this year’s WorldWCR. She explains the journey to reaching elite levels as a female rider and what participating in the new World Championship means to her. “Riding in mixed categories is possible, and you can perform well, but there are physical differences to consider,” Ongaro notes. “In the 600cc category, it’s manageable, but in the 1000cc category, it becomes more challenging. It’s always been a fight to compete at the front. Now, with this women’s championship, we have an opportunity. It’s not easier just because we’re not racing against men—that’s not how it should be viewed. I want to show that you don’t need family or financial advantages to succeed in this sport, even though it’s expensive. You can still make it.”
She continues, “The creation of this women’s championship is a positive step, breaking down barriers. That’s why I wanted to be a part of it. I believe it will help, even in educating young girls. There are no more excuses—if you’re determined, you can achieve your goals. I’m proud to participate in the positive evolution of women’s sports globally and to have been selected at such a historic moment. I’m proud to represent France and to wear its colors. You have to believe in your dreams and give everything to achieve them.”
Ornella Answers Our Final Questions
What inspired you to become a professional rider?
“From the moment I started riding, I knew it was my calling. I used to tell my mother that this was my thing, that it was going to be my career. Back then, there was no women’s championship, but when I watched Valentino Rossi racing in the 125cc, I just knew in my heart that I was destined to be there, to go pro. It was my fate.”
What other sports do you enjoy?
“I’m really into football, though I don’t play as much anymore to avoid injury. I’m a big fan of Olympique de Marseille. I love what the club represents and their work with young people from local districts. Sometimes, I even get invited to watch matches from the presidential suite! Aller l’OM! I enjoy all sports, especially those with a bit of danger—surfing, BMX, boxing, MMA. But I’m careful not to participate too much to avoid getting injured.”
What are your other hobbies?
“I also draw a lot, and apparently, I’m pretty good at it. It’s not exactly relaxing for me because it makes me think a lot, but I do love creating art. I work on paintings, mostly pop art, and I consider myself an artist at heart. In fact, I designed all my tattoos. My very first tattoo was my initials surrounded by a laurel wreath, symbolizing when I became the first girl to win a mixed race. I also have a phoenix head, a star with the North-West, my number, a tulip, and a dove for peace. Every tattoo has a special meaning, but the first one is probably the most significant.”
WorldWCR will return to action at the Acerbis Italian Round
from September 20th to 22nd at the Cremona Circuit.
WorldWCR WorldSBK Press Release
