F1 Academy is displaying a much stronger association with Formula 1 as its second season begins at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit this weekend.
The first champion, held across seven rounds last year, was a more low-key affair which took place away from F1 race weekends until the finale at the Circuit of the Americas.However for its second year F1 is keen to make its connection to the all-female junior series more explicit. Every round this year will take place on the F1 support bill, and 11 of the 15 regular drivers are backed by and carry the liveries of grand prix teams.
To make the association as clear as possible for television viewers, it is reflected on the timing screens as well. Drivers backed by F1 teams appear next to their logos rather than those of the teams which run their cars.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc said “it is super-important to see this new series with all the Formula 1 teams involved.
“I think it’s amazing and also to give the chance to all these women that are hoping to one day join Formula 1 and to give them a platform in order they can show what they are really capable of.”
Following this weekend’s two races the series will resume at the Miami Grand Prix in two months’ time. Its final two rounds coincide with the last dates on F1’s calendar: the Qatar and Abu Dhabi grands prix, both in December.
Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter and
F1 Academy practice in pictures
Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter and
2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
- Vowles being patient with Sargeant but expects to see “progress”
- “So I’ve got nothing to worry about?” – The best unheard team radio from Jeddah
- “Shock” of poor start to season showed need for change at Alpine – Famin
- “My tyres are dying”: Stroll’s short-lived struggle until he hit the wall
- Bearman calls Ferrari debut a “dream” but admits “I made a lot of mistakes”