Rediscovering Lella Lombardi with Jon Saltinstall

Rediscovering Lella Lombardi with Jon Saltinstall

Author: Mark Stone January 5, 2026 Duration: 58:20

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I turn the spotlight on the extraordinary yet often overlooked career of Lella Lombardi, one of motorsport’s true pioneers and the only woman to score points in Formula One.

Joined by Jon Saltinstall, I explore Lombardi’s life and career, from her groundbreaking achievements on the world stage to the barriers she faced competing in a sport dominated by men. We discuss why her story has so often been underplayed and what made her determination, talent, and resilience so remarkable.

John shares the motivation behind writing Lombardi’s biography, aiming to restore her place in motorsport history and ensure her achievements are appropriately recognised. This episode reflects on Lombardi’s lasting impact and why preserving her legacy matters, not just for motorsport fans but for future generations inspired by her trailblazing path.

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There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when the engine is off and the real talk begins. Backseat Driver captures that feeling, hosted by Mark Stone from his home in England's north-west. Mark's own journey from competitive driving in the eighties to decades of motoring journalism and television gives him a unique vantage point. He's not just a reporter; he's lived the life, and that genuine enthusiasm for anything with an engine comes through in every discussion. This podcast is built around Mark's conversations with the prominent figures who shape the automotive world, from legendary engineers and designers to champion racers and behind-the-scenes innovators. You'll hear stories that rarely make it into magazine articles, personal reflections on iconic cars, and unfiltered opinions on where the industry is headed. It's for anyone who finds the culture of motoring as compelling as the machinery itself. Tune in for a deep, relaxed dive into the passion that drives us all, hosted by someone who has truly been there and done it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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