Alba Larsen: Ferrari’s bold new bet for the 2026 F1 Academy season

An addition that signals long-term intent from Maranello and marks a new chapter in the Scuderia’s women-focused development program.

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Ferrari has made its move, confirming a major statement about its future in F1 Academy. At just 16 years old, Alba Larsen, one of the most exciting young prospects in European junior racing, has been selected to represent the team for the 2026 season, solidifying a trajectory that already hinted at something special during her rookie year.

The Danish driver wrapped up 2025 with an impressive campaign: seven top-five finishes, growing consistency and a best result of P4 in both Shanghai Race 2 and Las Vegas Race 2. It was more than enough to catch the eye of the most iconic name in motorsport. Ferrari didn’t just see potential; it saw structure and maturity.

Larsen will stay sharp during the winter with extra track time. She will compete in the F4 UAE Championship, maintaining international mileage, and return to the British F4 Championship, where she notched a best finish of P11 this year. The philosophy is unmistakable: gather experience, accumulate race craft and fine-tune competitive rhythm before tackling an increasingly stacked F1 Academy grid.

Before arriving in the category, Larsen won the Senior class of the 2023 FIA Girls on Track – Rising Stars program. That title paved her way into single-seaters in the 2024 Indian F4 Championship, where she scored points during her debut weekend.

Now the stakes grow higher. Representing Ferrari is not just another step. It is a symbol, a platform and a declaration. She knows it better than anyone, expressing exactly what the opportunity means.

“Racing for Ferrari in F1 Academy is a dream come true,” she said. “They’ve been my favourite team since I was a child and getting to wear red feels surreal and is an incredible honour. I’ve felt their support since FIA Girls on Track and now being part of the most iconic team in motorsport is a true honour. I’m ready to give everything I have for the Scuderia!”

For Ferrari, Larsen is not just a signing; she is an investment in the future. For her, Ferrari is the door very few get to open this early. And for F1 Academy, 2026 is shaping up to be the year where a new generation takes the spotlight.