Audi retains Emma Felbermayr for second F1 ACADEMY season

Audi has confirmed Emma Felbermayr for the 2026 F1 ACADEMY season (the all-female, single-make championship designed to develop and showcase female talent on the pathway to top-level motorsport), securing the Austrian driver for her second consecutive campaign in the series.

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Felbermayr becomes the 14th driver confirmed on the 2026 grid, continuing her upward trajectory after finishing 10th in the Drivers’ Standings last season, when she represented Kick Sauber, Audi’s predecessor within the project.

During her rookie campaign, the 19-year-old claimed her maiden victory in the championship with a last-lap sprint to the line in Montreal Race 2, alongside five additional points finishes. She also broadened her racing experience by competing in Spanish Formula 4, strengthening her technical foundation and racecraft.

Her confirmation completes Rodin Motorsport’s lineup and also sees her become the second driver to join the newly established Audi Driver Development Programme (a structured pathway focused on nurturing young drivers toward higher single-seater categories). Over the winter break, Felbermayr has continued her preparations by racing in the UAE4 Series, maintaining competitive momentum ahead of the new season.

Audi’s commitment was underlined by Allan McNish, Director of the Audi Driver Development Programme. “We are delighted to officially welcome Emma Felbermayr to the Audi Revolut F1 Team family. Her performance and dedication in her debut F1 ACADEMY season were impressive, and we see great potential for her future,” he said.

McNish added: “Supporting female talent is a key priority for our Formula 1 operations, and it is a source of pride to continue the legacy of strong female drivers who have succeeded with the Four Rings. We look forward to seeing Emma carry our colours on the grid in 2026.”

Felbermayr highlighted the significance of the opportunity: “Continuing in F1 ACADEMY and now doing so as an official Audi Revolut F1 Team driver is a huge honour. To be associated with a brand with such an incredible motorsport history, and one that supported icons like Michèle Mouton and Rahel Frey, is truly inspiring.”

She concluded: “I’m grateful for the trust being placed in me and can’t wait to wear the Audi colours on the grid. My goal is to represent the brand with pride, build on what I learned last season, and fight for strong results.”