2026 F1 Academy Updates

By Teagan Crump

F1 Academy and Formula One have announced that the ten current Formula One teams will continue on with their support and sponsorship of the all-female feeder series. Cadillac F1 have also announced that they will sponsor an F1 Academy car from 2027, one year after they join the Formula One grid. 

The re-affirmation of the Formula One teams shows that they have a genuine commitment to females in motorsport and increasing participation.

Additionally, from 2027, the two-season maximum is being altered. The series have stated that a ‘focus on deeper talent development’ by allowing drivers who have competed in the previous two seasons an exemption and allowing them to compete in the third series. This change will allow for ‘a tailored approach to nurturing talent’ as well as only being granted to ‘drivers whose performance indicates strong potential for continued growth’. 

Managing Director of F1 Academy, Susie Wolff said:

“The commitment of long-term support from all ten current Formula 1 teams, and the addition of Cadillac to our grid from 2027, sends a powerful message about the future of F1 ACADEMY. We’re not just providing a platform for the current generation of female drivers; together, we’re building a pathway to support generations of talent to come.

“We continue to be impressed by the depth of female talent coming out of the world of karting and are encouraged by the growth and strength of the emerging talent pool. A sharpened focus on individualised talent development, including the opportunity for drivers with high potential to compete in up to three seasons, will give stand out drivers the support and platform needed to fully realise their potential, while ensuring that the F1 ACADEMY grid consistently features the very best female talent.”

These updates will allow for F1 Academy's growth and more potential opportunities for females in motorsport.