The 2024 F1 Academy season is here, and it’s making a grand entrance in Jeddah! This all-female racing series, now in its second season, will run alongside the Formula 1 World Championship, with seven rounds across the globe. And where better to start than the Jeddah Corniche Circuit – the fastest and longest street circuit in the world?
A Thrilling Season Ahead
The F1 Academy season will feature seven rounds, each held during a Formula 1 weekend. After Jeddah, the series moves to Miami, Barcelona, Zandvoort, Singapore, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. With a mix of street circuits and traditional tracks, the calendar promises excitement at every turn.
Meet the Teams and Drivers
This year, all 10 Formula 1 teams are backing the F1 Academy, with each team supporting a driver who will race in their livery. The grid features a mix of new and returning talent, with six newcomers and nine returnees.
Reigning champions PREMA Racing have an all-new lineup, including Ferrari-backed Maya Weug and Mercedes junior Doriane Pin. MP Motorsport brings back its 2023 trio of Hamda and Amna Al Qubaisi, along with Emely De Heus. Other standout names include Alpine junior Abbi Pulling, Red Bull-backed Nerea Martí, and McLaren’s Bianca Bustamante. With seven past race winners on the grid, this season is shaping up to be ultra-competitive.
The Race Format
The opening round in Jeddah spans three days from March 7-9. Drivers will tackle one practice session before heading into a 30-minute qualifying session under the floodlights. Their fastest lap will set the grid for Race 1, while the second-fastest lap will determine Race 2’s lineup. Each race lasts 30 minutes, with points awarded to the top 10 finishers.
The Wild Card: Reema Juffali
Saudi Arabia’s very own Reema Juffali is set to make a special appearance as a wild card entry. Juffali, who made history as the country’s first female professional racing driver, brings her experience and skill to the track, adding an exciting local angle to the season opener. Her presence at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit is sure to inspire the next generation of female racers in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Why Jeddah?
The Jeddah Corniche Circuit is famous for its high speeds and technical layout, featuring 27 corners and breathtaking views of the Red Sea. Drivers will push their limits as they navigate the fast straights and tight turns, making it a thrilling test of skill and precision.
With an exciting lineup of drivers, the support of Formula 1 teams, and a high-speed circuit to kick things off, the 2024 F1 Academy season is set to be a game-changer. And with Reema Juffali racing on home soil, the Jeddah round is one you won’t want to miss!
For more information and ticket purchases, visit saudiarabiangp.com.
