Jonas LeoThe F1 Academy, launched in 2023, serves as a critical stepping stone designed to develop and prepare female drivers for higher levels of single-seater competition, ultimately aiming to facilitate their progression towards Formula 1. Each F1 Academy car is affiliated with a Formula 1 team, providing invaluable branding, technical support, and a clear pathway for drivers. The series features identical cars to ensure a level playing field, with success primarily dependent on driver skill, engineering acumen, and team strategy. Races are held as support events at select Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends, offering the young competitors unparalleled exposure on the global motorsport stage.
Paatz’s selection follows a rigorous evaluation process and a burgeoning junior career that has seen her demonstrate considerable potential. Reflecting on her momentous announcement, Mathilda Paatz expressed profound pride and determination. "I’m really proud to be representing Aston Martin Aramco in F1 Academy next year," Paatz stated, highlighting the significance of this opportunity. "This is something I’ve worked incredibly hard for, and my focus now is on preparing for the season ahead." Her remarks underscore the intense dedication required to reach this level of competitive motorsport.
The 2026 season will mark Paatz’s rookie campaign in the F1 Academy, a challenge she embraces with a clear understanding of the learning curve ahead. "There will be lots to learn, including several new circuits, but I feel confident knowing I have so much support from Aston Martin Aramco and PREMA Racing," she added. The mention of PREMA Racing, a powerhouse in junior formula categories known for developing numerous F1 stars, adds another layer of credibility and support to Paatz’s program. Her initial interaction with the team at the AMR Technology Campus in Silverstone also left a strong impression. "I had a great first day at the AMR Technology Campus in Silverstone meeting so many incredible people from the Aston Martin Aramco team. I immediately felt at home and everybody was very welcoming. I couldn’t be happier and I can’t wait to get racing!" This early positive experience is vital for a young driver integrating into a high-performance environment.
Paatz’s journey to the Aston Martin Driver Academy has been characterized by consistent progression through various junior categories. In 2024, she competed in the competitive French Formula 4 Championship, gaining valuable experience in a challenging single-seater series. Prior to that, her participation in the F4 CEZ (Central European Zone) Championship saw her achieve a significant milestone: her first career podium finish at the renowned Red Bull Ring circuit. These results demonstrate her ability to adapt and perform in varied racing environments. Crucially, Paatz also had a taste of F1 Academy competition earlier this season, making a wildcard appearance at the Montreal round, where she was backed by Gatorade. This experience provided her with direct insight into the series, its demands, and the unique atmosphere of racing on a Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend.
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The selection process that led to Paatz joining the Aston Martin Driver Academy was comprehensive and highly competitive. Nuno Pinto, Aston Martin Driver Academy Racing Director, detailed the meticulous evaluation. "In partnership with PREMA Racing, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of four drivers before selecting who would represent Aston Martin Aramco in the 2026 F1 Academy series," Pinto explained. "To ensure a rigorous and fair assessment, we held a shootout at the demanding Mugello Circuit, giving each driver a day in an F4 car to showcase their capabilities."
Pinto elaborated on Paatz’s standout performance during this crucial evaluation. "Mathilda not only emerged as the fastest driver, but also demonstrated consistency, maturity and a competitive spirit," he affirmed. These attributes are highly sought after in young drivers and are indicative of a strong foundation for future success. "Her performance was strong enough not just to secure the F1 Academy seat, but also to earn herself a place in the Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy. We are delighted to welcome her as both our F1 Academy driver and a member of our development programme, and we look forward to supporting her throughout this exciting next step in her career." This dual recognition highlights the team’s long-term belief in her potential, integrating her into their broader talent development pipeline.
Jessica Hawkins, Aston Martin’s driver ambassador and also a key figure as head of the team’s F1 Academy initiative, welcomed Paatz with enthusiasm. "I’m really pleased to be welcoming Mathilda to our team," Hawkins remarked. Her insights as a fellow female racing driver and an ambassador for the sport add significant weight to her commendation. Hawkins underscored the vital role of the series itself: "F1 Academy continues to be such a brilliant platform for developing and showcasing emerging talent, offering young drivers the support and visibility they need to grow."
The F1 Academy’s mission extends beyond individual careers, aiming to inspire a new generation. Hawkins emphasized this broader impact: "The amazing drivers competing in the series are not only shaping the future of the sport but also inspiring the next generation of female racers, showing what’s possible when passion is encouraged and supported." This sentiment aligns with Formula 1’s overarching drive to foster greater diversity and inclusion across all levels of motorsport. Hawkins also acknowledged the outgoing driver, Tina Hausmann, wishing her "all the best in the next chapter of her career," ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in Aston Martin’s F1 Academy representation.
Paatz’s entry into the Aston Martin Driver Academy and her forthcoming F1 Academy campaign signify a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. The support from a Formula 1 manufacturer like Aston Martin, combined with the technical expertise of PREMA Racing, provides a robust framework for her development. Her proven speed, coupled with the maturity and consistency observed during the selection shootout, positions her as a promising talent to watch in the coming seasons. The F1 Academy, by providing a professional and highly visible platform, is instrumental in identifying and cultivating drivers like Paatz, who possess the raw talent and dedication required to potentially reach the pinnacle of motorsport. Her journey will be closely followed as she aims to leverage this opportunity to advance her aspirations in the highly competitive world of international single-seater racing.
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Author Profile
- Jonas Leo is a passionate motorsport journalist and lifelong Formula 1 enthusiast. With a sharp eye for race strategy and driver performance, he brings readers closer to the world of Grand Prix racing through in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive paddock insights. Jonas has covered everything from preseason testing to dramatic title deciders, capturing the emotion and precision that define modern F1. When he’s not tracking lap times or pit stop tactics, he enjoys exploring classic racing archives and writing about the evolution of F1 technology.
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