Alisha Palmowski has etched her name into motorsport history, becoming the 2026 F1 Academy champion with three races remaining on the calendar. The 20-year-old clinched the title at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin after converting a victory in Friday’s Opening Race into a second-place finish in the Reverse Grid Race. Although Alba Larsen took the win in the second race, Palmowski’s consistent performance secured a 70-point lead over her closest challenger, Emme Felbermayr, rendering the remaining 67 available points mathematically impossible to overcome.
Briton secures title with three races to spare after dominant Austin weekend
Palmowski’s dominance throughout the season is statistically undeniable, having claimed five wins and six pole positions in the first 11 races. Backed by Red Bull, she has established herself as the youngest F1 Academy champion and the second British driver to win the title, following Abbi Pulling’s triumph in 2024. Her performance in Austin capped off a campaign defined by consistency and raw speed, with her family and team in attendance to witness the historic moment.
The title clincher sets the stage for a celebratory Sunday, where Palmowski will start from pole position in the main race at 5pm, broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. While the championship is already decided, the opportunity to cap off a memorable weekend with another victory remains on the table. Palmowski praised her team and family for their support, marking a dream come true for the Briton as she prepares to defend her pole position in front of a global audience.
Source: Sky Sports
