Racing Her Own Line: Dina Rohinton Patel’s Journey From Rally Tracks to Global Dreams
Oct 23rd, 2025
At just 21, Dina Rohinton Patel has carved her name into Pakistan’s motorsport history books. With 17 rally podiums, national karting records, and an FIA racing license under her belt, she’s not just breaking barriers — she’s setting new standards for what’s possible in a sport still finding its place in the country.
Courtesy of Dina Patel herself.
Born into a family where the sound of engines was part of everyday life, Dina’s passion for racing was sparked early. “My interest in motorsport began when I first saw my dad race in Jhal Magsi 2013,” she recalls. “I remember launching him off as a baby and thinking, one day, I want to be in his shoes.” That childhood moment would become the foundation for a journey defined by courage, resilience, and raw talent.
Starting rallying at 18 years and 12 days old, Dina became Pakistan’s youngest female off-road rally racer — a title she jokes will only be taken by someone “lucky enough to be born in that twelve-day gap.” Her early success came with a karting win that changed her career. “When I won that race, I got the FIA license as a gift for winning all those years ago,” she says with pride.
Courtesy of Dina Patel
Defying Limits, Defining Success:
Now recognized as the youngest FIA-licensed female racer from Pakistan, Dina’s growth has been meteoric. Her determination on the track mirrors her mindset off it — relentless, fearless, and self-assured. “During one rally, I drove 20–25 kilometers without a rear-left tire,” she laughs. “Only my karting experience could’ve taught me how to control such a heavy car on three tires.”
Karting, she explains, was a turning point. “Everyone told me I couldn’t make it in karting. But I did. Perseverance, discipline, determination — that’s what got me here. People’s limits are just their limits. They have nothing to do with you.”
Her rise has not gone unnoticed. Sponsored by DHA City, PSO, HBL AMC, and Gobi’s Paints, Dina sees these partnerships as much more than financial support. “It’s less about the money and more about trust. These brands have recognized my character, my judgment, and my skill set. They’ve trusted me to be their ambassador — to put my best foot forward for them.”
Credit: _dina.patel_ on Instagram
Breaking Barriers, Embracing Challenges:
Despite being a woman in a male-dominated field, Dina insists she’s never faced discrimination in motorsport — only the physical realities that come with being human. “We bleed every month, and sometimes that coincides with a rally,” she says candidly. “But I still need to win and be 100% even when my body is going through those changes. That’s my challenge. Other than that, the support for women in motorsport has been astronomical.”
Her training routine is grueling. “When rally season starts, it’s back-to-back wrecking, note-taking, sim training, running, swimming — everything to stay mentally and physically sharp,” she explains. “Rallying teaches you to adapt. You race in unpredictable conditions, with rough terrain, weather, animals — anything can happen. So, adapting becomes second nature.”
Even with her achievements, Dina admits she’s still processing the impact she’s had. “It’s overwhelming when kids come up asking for autographs or pictures. I’m just a 21-year-old myself. I’m still learning, still refining. But I’m blessed to be seen as an inspiration.”
Courtesy of Dina Patel
Carrying a Nation’s Flag:
Representing Pakistan on the international stage is something Dina takes to heart. “I carry my country with me. I carry my armed forces, my businesses, my people, my culture. It’s an added responsibility — one I’m proud of.”
Courtesy of Dina Patel
also believes that Pakistan’s motorsport scene is on the cusp of transformation. “The sport grows when brands like DHA, PSO, HBL, and Gobi’s recognize that racing is worth investing in. My role is to be the poster child who convinces them to support more athletes, not just me.”
Eyes on the Future:
As for what’s next, Dina is clear-eyed about her goals. “Next year, I’m looking forward to competing in the A-Prepared category with the men,” she reveals. “Endurance races like WEC aren’t my focus. Circuit racing, though — that’s something on my list.”
Her ultimate dream? “To race for Oracle Red Bull Racing,” she says with a grin. “Red Bull is known to create villains — high-performance athletes who know exactly what they want. Verstappen, Ricciardo, Vettel — all of them came through that system. That’s where I want to be.”
A Star in the Making:
From her first rally at 18 to her FIA license, Dina Rohinton Patel’s journey reflects more than just personal success — it’s a roadmap for Pakistan’s motorsport future. Her combination of humility, hunger, and skill is a reminder that passion knows no gender, and ambition knows no borders.
And as the engines rev for what’s next, one thing is certain — Dina isn’t just driving cars. She’s driving change.
