Marta Garcia Makes History as Inaugural F1 Academy Champion
Marta Garcia has created history by becoming the first-ever champion of the F1 Academy, a groundbreaking all-female series. The Spanish driver, who races for Prema, secured the title by winning the opening race of the final round at Circuit of The Americas in Austin on Saturday. With an unassailable lead over her closest rival, Lena Buhler, Garcia showcased her talent and determination throughout the season.
Starting from pole position, Garcia faced a strong challenge from British driver Abbi Pulling but managed to hold her off and claim her seventh victory of the season. Buhler finished in third place, solidifying Garcia’s championship win. This achievement marks a significant milestone for women in motorsport and highlights the progress being made to promote gender equality in Formula 1.
Garcia, with her impressive track record, will now look to add more wins to her tally in the remaining two races of the season. The shorter Race Two will take place on Saturday, followed by Race Three on Sunday. The 23-year-old driver set the tone for her championship campaign by winning both of the longer races in the season opener in Austria back in April.
Before her involvement in the F1 Academy, Garcia competed in all three seasons of the now-discontinued W Series. The F1 Academy aims to support the development of young female drivers aged 16-25 and prepare them for higher levels of motorsport competition. Five teams participated in the inaugural season, with Prema, ART, Campos, Rodin Carlin, and MP Motorsport entering three cars each to form a 15-car grid.
Looking ahead to the next season, Formula 1 teams will have expanded involvement in the F1 Academy. Each team will enter one affiliated driver and run a car in their livery. Additionally, all seven F1 Academy rounds in 2024 will feature on F1 race weekends, further integrating female-driven motorsport events into the Formula 1 calendar.
Marta Garcia’s success in the F1 Academy not only showcases her talent and determination but also highlights the strides being made to promote gender diversity in motorsport. As the first-ever champion of the all-female series, Garcia has secured her place in history and serves as an inspiration for aspiring female drivers around the world.
