F1 ACADEMY is set to shake up its race weekend structure with the introduction of a brand-new three-race format, debuting during the 2026 season. The updated structure will first appear at Round 2 in Montreal, Canada, before returning later in the year in Austin, USA—marking a significant evolution for the all-female racing series.
The move reinforces the championship’s ongoing commitment to innovation, competitive racing, and fan engagement—key pillars that continue to drive its rapid global growth.
A New Era: Introducing the Opening Race
At the heart of the format change is the introduction of an all-new Opening Race, which will kick off select race weekends alongside the existing Reverse Grid Race and Feature Race.
This addition restores the 2026 calendar to a total of 14 races, following confirmation that the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will no longer take place in April.
The Opening Race is designed to bring a fresh layer of excitement and strategy to the weekend. Unlike traditional formats, the grid will be determined by each driver’s second-fastest qualifying lap, adding complexity to the 30-minute qualifying session. Drivers must now deliver consistency across multiple laps—not just a single standout performance.
Full championship points will be awarded for the Opening Race, contributing to both Drivers’ and Teams’ standings. A bonus point will also be given for the fastest lap, although no points will be awarded for pole position.
Strategic Innovation Meets Fan Experience
The enhanced format has been developed in close collaboration with race promoters in Canada and the United States, ensuring that both track action and fan engagement are elevated.
By expanding the race weekend, F1 ACADEMY aims to:
- Maximise competitive track time for drivers
- Deliver more on-track action for fans
- Introduce new strategic challenges for teams
- Maintain flexibility within the race calendar
The ability to include the Opening Race at selected rounds also allows organisers to adapt to scheduling changes, such as postponed races, or make use of additional track time during Grand Prix weekends.
Leadership Insights: Driving the Future of F1 ACADEMY
Susie Wolff, Managing Director of F1 ACADEMY, highlighted the importance of evolving the series:
“Introducing the Opening Race at select rounds underscores our commitment to building a platform where the most talented can thrive by maximising competitive track time.”
She added that the new format reflects the championship’s ambition to elevate race weekends while delivering a more compelling experience for both drivers and fans.
Delphine Biscaye, Head of Race Operations, emphasised the strategic depth the change brings:
“By setting the grid using each driver’s second fastest qualifying time, we’re adding another layer of strategy to the weekend.”
She also noted that the format provides flexibility to adapt to unforeseen schedule changes, ensuring the integrity and continuity of the championship.
Global Spotlight: Montreal and Austin Lead the Way
The new format will debut at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal—one of the most iconic venues on the racing calendar—before returning at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, a fan-favourite known for its electric atmosphere.
Learn more about these circuits:
What This Means for the Future
The introduction of the Opening Race signals a bold step forward for F1 ACADEMY as it continues to evolve its format and expand its global reach. By combining innovation with competitive integrity, the series is positioning itself as one of the most exciting developments in modern motorsport.
As the 2026 season approaches, fans can expect more action, more strategy, and more opportunities to witness the next generation of racing talent in action.
