Westcott to run with Mercedes in F1 Academy

American racer Payton Westcott has been announced as an associated Mercedes driver for the upcoming F1 Academy season.

Westcott, 16, will race with PREMA Racing for her rookie campaign and will be an instantly recognisable driver on the grid, running in Mercedes colours.

The American has joined F1 Academy after a season in Italian F4, where she finished second in the women’s standings behind Brit, Emily Cotty, but 48th overall in a tough first season in cars.

📸Westcott celebrating a class win in Formula Winter Series.

Speaking on her news Westcott said; “I’m excited to join the Mercedes family for the 2026 F1 Academy season. They are an incredible team and one that is driven by passion, determination, and a constant pursuit of excellence.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to work with such a talented group of people that are commitment to developing young talent.”

📸 Image credits: Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, Payton Westcott.