The all-female single-seater championship returns this weekend, better than ever as it starts a new chapter at the Shanghai International Circuit, marking the fourth season of F1 Academy in 2026.
Racing on the FIA Formula 1 support bill once more, the series’ prominence, competitiveness, and stature all continue to rise.
After four years, it’s firmly part of the Formula 1 weekend ecosystem and the junior single-seater ladder. No longer the ‘new kid’, it’s now a serious player.
What is F1 Academy?
Formula One Group inaugurated F1 Academy in 2023. The primary objective was to increase female participation and progression in single-seater racing.
The championship operates at Formula 4 level. All drivers compete in identical Tatuus F4-T421 chassis. These chassis are powered by turbocharged engines prepared by Autotecnica. They run on Pirelli tyres. The cars generate around 165 brake horsepower and reach speeds close to 240 km/h, providing a competitive yet developmental environment.
As a spec series, the focus is squarely on driver ability. With equal machinery throughout the field, performance differences are determined by racecraft, precision, and consistency.
Since 2024, each of the 10 Formula One teams has supported a driver with branding and financial sponsorship. This support strengthens that direct pipeline to the top. (And yes, that link is only getting stronger in 2026.)
Building a Legacy
Despite its short tenure, the F1 Academy has already crowned three championships.
Marta García won the inaugural title in 2023 with a consistent and dominant campaign. Abbi Pulling claimed the championship in 2024, following a season of great qualifying and race control. Doriane Pin secured the 2025 crown, highlighting the series’ growing competitive depth.
These titles aren’t just participation trophies. They are legitimate career boosters. They underline F1 Academy’s value as a stepping stone along the single-seater ladder.
The 2026 Season at a Glance
The 2026 calendar extends over seven rounds and a total of 14 races around Asia, Europe, and North America:
- Shanghai, China
- Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Montreal, Canada
- Silverstone, Great Britain
- Zandvoort, Netherlands
- Austin, United States
- Las Vegas, United States
Silverstone’s participation marks a significant milestone, bringing the F1 Academy to the home of British motorsport for the first time. Meanwhile, the season finale under the lights in Las Vegas provides a dramatic setting for the title showdown.
Each weekend includes two races, one of which is in a reverse-grid configuration. This setup consistently delivers close racing and surprising results, guaranteeing that qualifying pace alone is insufficient to win a round.
Season Opener: Shanghai in Focus
The season’s first race at the Shanghai International Circuit will offer a technical and tough start to the year. The sweeping opening complex highlights balance and finesse. The long back straight favours slipstreaming. It offers overtaking opportunities into Turn 14’s severe braking zone.
Opening rounds can be important in determining early momentum, especially in a closely matched field. With less testing than other junior categories, drivers must adapt quickly and perform under pressure from the start.
Competing in a Formula One weekend adds an extra dimension of intensity. For many on the grid, Shanghai will be their first time racing in front of a global Grand Prix audience.
A New Chapter Begins
As engines roar up in China, the 2026 season promises both continuity and advancement. Four seasons later, F1 Academy is no longer only about opportunity. It is about performance, progression, and establishing a long-term presence in international motorsport.
With a growing legacy and another competitive grid formed, the lights are about to go out on what looks to be an exciting fourth season.
Featured image credit: motorsport.com
Edited by Alexandra.
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