F1 Academy has announced the 2026 rookie test, expanding the program to include a new training camp in partnership with Loughborough University.
Science‑Backed Insight at Loughborough
Between 25 and 27 August, 18 select drivers will gather at the university to undergo physiological profiling, cognitive assessments, and VALD performance screening. Workshops delivered by subject‑matter experts and driver preparation sessions are designed to sharpen physical and mental readiness.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome F1 Academy and its rookie drivers to Loughborough,” said Lou Gear, director of sport. “Our collaboration reflects a shared commitment to championing women in sport and creating environments where ambitious young people can thrive and fulfil their potential.”
Gear added that Loughborough’s legacy of supporting athletes to reach the world stage aligns with F1 Academy’s mission to nurture the next generation of female racing talent.
On‑Track and Off‑Track at Circuito de Navarra
The second segment of the program will run from 9 to 11 September at the Circuito de Navarra. Here, the cadets will integrate into an F1 Academy team context—shadowing engineering sessions, watching operational briefings, and receiving media training before racing the Academy’s machinery.
“The success of our inaugural rookie test in 2025 showcased the depth of female racing talent and highlighted the need for more avenues to conduct testing and development,” explained Katie Denver, F1 Academy performance and talent development manager. “In 2026, we are extending the programme with the rookie training camp, underpinning on‑track progress with a science‑based approach to athlete development.”
Rookie Cohort
Drivers selected for the 2026 rookie test are:
- Milla Sjöstrand
- Kareen Kaur
- Ella Lähdemaa
- Autumn Fisher
- Kokoro Sato
- Victoria Farfus
- Sara Matsui
- Eva Dorrestijn
- Sofia Zanfari
- Ginevra Panzeri
- Zoe Florescu
- Luna Fluxa
- Carmen Kraav
- Alexia Danielsson
- Jordyn Deza‑Martin
- Rosanne den Drijver
- Clara Stiebleichinger
- Yana Kapoor
Forward Momentum
By merging world‑class scientific research with real‑world racing exposure, the 2026 F1 Academy rookie test aims to accelerate the drivers’ path from talent identification to elite competition, setting the stage for the next wave of female racers to step onto the grid.
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