Beatriz Neila: The Fast-Lane Life of a Law Graduate & World-Class Racer

At 23 years of age, Beatriz Neila is a standout figure in international motorcycle racing and not just for her speed on two wheels. The four-time Women’s European Champion is a rising star in the World Women’s Circuit Racing (WorldWCR) paddock, and also a qualified lawyer. Press: WorldSBK

Beatriz recently completed her law degree and a master’s in international law while competing at the highest level. “I graduated last year, just after the first WorldWCR round at Misano,” Neila explains. “I’m so proud because it’s super difficult to do the sport and study at the same time. It was a challenge – especially in 2024 with the new R7, very different to the 300 I had been riding before – but I did it. I graduated and finished fourth in WorldWCR.”

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Her determination shines through in every aspect of her life. Balancing law school and a professional racing career is no small feat, but Neila never saw university life as something she was missing out on. “I’m someone who finds it hard to be ‘tranquilla’. I like to be busy. I just work, work, work. I prefer studying or training, to be honest.”

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With her academic achievements now complete, Neila has thrown her focus entirely into her racing career – and the 2025 season is shaping up to be a big one. She currently sits second in the championship standings, just 9 points behind Maria Herrera. “The goal this year is to win,” she says. “Maria, Roberta, Sara – they’re all in their late 20s with Moto3 or MotoE experience and great teams. For me, a top three finish would already be positive, but I’m aiming for the top.”Interestingly, law was once her plan A, and sport her fallback. But with the launch of WorldWCR and increased visibility for women in racing, that script has flipped. “Now sport is my Plan A. I think this championship gives women a good opportunity to show what we can do on a bike.”Neila does, however, envision a future where her legal background and racing experience combine. “I’d like to be a lawyer in sport. When a lawyer is in court, they’re on the stage. It’s similar to racing. I have a team behind me, but when I put my helmet on, it’s just me and my bike.”A key element of her success has been her unwavering family support. Her father, once hesitant about his daughter racing, has become her biggest planner and enabler, organising training days and accompanying her to events. “My family supports me a lot. My brother, sister and I are very close – like a tribe. My brother gives me tips, even though he doesn’t come to the races. And my sister is my everything.”That strength of character carries into the paddock, where Neila has become known as a supportive figure. “I like to help everyone,” she says. “If a rider comes to me about gearing or strategy, I’ll share. I’ve got a good relationship with most of the riders. There’s a bit of fighting among the Spanish girls, but not from me.”Neila also has a vision for the future of the sport. She hopes to see WorldWCR grow into a more structured series, with progression categories similar to MotoGP. “Right now, we only have this one World Championship, but girls need support earlier in their careers. The European Championship needs more backing from Dorna and the FIM, so we can start there before moving up.”

Wsbk_Balaton_Park_2025 Photo : William Joly

Beyond racing, Neila is a self-confessed all-round athlete. She completed her first triathlon two years ago and regularly trains for endurance sports. “I love sport. I want to do more triathlons – I’m planning two more this year. I’m also doing Hyrox, a kind of CrossFit, and I’d love to compete at the big Hyrox event in Madrid this November.”Beatriz Neila is living proof that hard work, focus, and passion can take you a long way – both on and off the racetrack. With her eyes on the WorldWCR title and a clear vision for the future, she represents a new generation of athletes who are breaking barriers and setting new standards – not just for women in motorsport, but for riders everywhere.