Behind the scenes

We spoke to Lidia Ceruzuela, Crew Chief at Joe Rascal Racing, about what the role involves, and how she got to work with the team

Experienced motorcycle race engineer Lidia Ceruzuela has the unique distinction of being the only female crew chief in the paddock at the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup, working with the riders, team engineers and technicians to optimise the performance and handling of the race bikes.

“I joined the Joe Rascal team after the first round in the US, so Mugello was my first race with them,” recalls Lidia. “It was a baptism of fire, but the opportunity to join the team was too exciting to turn down. I was excited to work with the Harley-Davidson brand, too. After all, Harleys are the first thing that comes to mind for most people when they think of motorcycles.”

Originally from Andalucia, Spain, Lidia grew up watching motorsport, particularly Formula 1, with her father. Although she’d never imagined being a part of the racing world, seeing a female mechanic at a race inspired her to pursue a career in motorsport engineering.

After graduating in mechanical engineering, Lidia took a master’s degree in industrial engineering, then spent eight years working in the MotoJunior World Championship and ESBK – Spanish Circuit Racing Championship.

Data analysis and implementing insights from telematics, alongside riders’ direct verbal feedback, is a huge part of modern top-flight racing, whether it’s on two or four wheels. When she’s not directly liaising with technicians and riders in the pit, Lidia can usually be found focusing on computer screens and in constant intercom connection with riders.

“My role is focused on data acquisition and technical crew leadership to optimise the performance of the bikes. I love the work, the competition and the Joe Rascal team, and I’m happy to be helping them to achieve the success they deserve.”

This interview was carried out just after the second round of the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup at Mugello.

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