Shift Up Now fans and supporters, it's time for another round of our brand-new series, “Meet the Athlete.”
Our goal is to tell the Athletes’ stories in a fun Q&A format, so you can get to know each one. That way, you’ll have even more reason to cheer for them, and show your support by being a Shift Up Now Member.
So without further ado, meet Erika Hoffmann!
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a CEO—I was drawn to leadership, building something meaningful, and making an impact. I didn’t know what industry I’d end up in, but that drive to create has always been part of who I am.
Where and how did you get started in racing?
I had almost no exposure to racing growing up. I assumed you had to start young, have a lot of money, and live in Europe to become a racing driver. I didn’t even realize there was racing in Canada. But I was always drawn to it, and after getting my driver’s license, the desire to get on track only grew. Eventually, I found out about Calabogie Motorsports Park and started lapping my street car. From that moment, I was determined to find a way to race.
Describe how you progressed through your early days to where you are now.
I started with grassroots lapping in 2019. After COVID, I entered the Formula Woman International Driver Search, competing against 1,000 women from 35 countries. I was inexperienced compared to many of the drivers, but I made it through all the elimination rounds, and placed 1st in the final. This earned me a spot racing a McLaren 570s GT in the UK’s GT Cup Championship in 2022. In 2023, I represented Canada at the FIA Rallystar competition and was the top North American female driver. I also co-founded Slate Racing, Canada’s first female-led racing team. Now, I’m competing in Porsche Sprint Challenge North America with Kellymoss for the 2025 season.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced?
Starting late with no industry connections, I had to learn everything from the ground up. I couldn’t afford to race on my own, so I had to figure out sponsorships to fund my career. That also meant limited testing, often going straight into races with minimal preparation. Navigating these challenges has taken creativity, resilience, and a lot of persistence. I've learned that success often comes down to persistence—refusing to quit, even when things aren’t going your way.
What are some of your greatest achievements so far, or the things you’re most proud of?
Winning the Formula Woman International Driver Search in 2022 was a turning point, especially since I had no prior wheel-to-wheel racing experience. Competing in the UK’s GT Cup Championship and representing Canada at the FIA Rallystar competition are also moments I’m incredibly proud of. But one of my biggest achievements is co-founding Slate Racing, Canada’s first female-led racing team, focused on creating opportunities for women in motorsports and helping drive change in the industry.
What are you most looking forward to this upcoming year?
The chance to race a full season in the Porsche Sprint Challenge North America with Kellymoss. I’ve never had the funding to do a full season before, so I’m excited to get consistent seat time and the opportunity to develop as a driver. I feel extremely grateful to be working with Kellymoss, they are a top-tier team and focused heavily on driver development. And everyone I’ve met on the team has been incredibly kind and welcoming.
What’s your favorite hobby, or way to spend your free time, outside of racing?
I love spending time with my family, friends, and my Australian Shepherd, Piper. I also enjoy snowboarding, surfing, and being by the water.
What’s your “cheat meal” of choice?
Anything carb-heavy! Processed sugar gives me migraines, so I’m definitely a savory-over-sweet kind of person.
Where are you racing next?
Sonoma Raceway on April 4-5, 2025, for the second round of the Porsche Sprint Challenge North America. I've never been to Somoma before so I'm excited to experience it.
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