In a sport long dominated by men and lacking diversity, Tia Norfleet has broken barriers as the first and only licensed African-American female NASCAR driver, blazing a trail for future generations of women and minority racers.
Born in Suffolk, Virginia, and raised around engines and race tracks, Tia is the daughter of former NASCAR driver Bobby Norfleet. Inspired by her father but determined to carve her own legacy, Tia earned her NASCAR license, becoming a historic figure in American motorsports.
“Tia Norfleet is not just racing cars — she’s racing toward change,” said a spokesperson from NASCAR Diversity Development. “She represents a powerful shift in the culture of racing — one that welcomes talent from every background.”
Competing in a sport with few women and even fewer African-American participants, Norfleet’s journey has not been easy. From facing skepticism and stereotypes to finding sponsorship and recognition, she has remained committed to proving that skill, passion, and perseverance know no boundaries.
Over the years, Tia has competed in drag racing, late model stock cars, and various circuits, steadily building experience and fan support. Beyond the racetrack, she’s a vocal advocate for STEM education, diversity in sports, and youth empowerment, often speaking at schools and community events across the U.S.
As Tia Norfleet continues to fight for her place on the grid, she remains a symbol of resilience and representation, inspiring countless young girls — especially women of color — to dream big and drive even faster.
In a high-speed sport where every second counts, Tia Norfleet has already made history — and she’s just getting started.
