F1 Academy - Season 2 roars into life

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The all-female F1 Academy series will kick off in Jeddah this weekend its second-year quest to propel women racers towards Formula 1.

Marta Garcia won last year’s inaugural F1 Academy championship and has since moved, along with runner-up Lena Buhler, to the 2024 Formula Regional European Championship.

Several changes have been implemented in the series, among them the incorporation of FIA superlicence points, a prerequisite for entering Formula 1.

But the most noteworthy development is the closer bond forged between the series and Formula 1.

This year each of the 10 F1 teams will sponsor an F1 Academy driver, while the remaining five drivers in the championship will receive support from other partners.

The girls are ready to unleash their inner warriors!

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.