F1 announce 'landmark agreement' in new multi-year deal

F1 has announced a “landmark agreement” with F1 Academy, revealing all of its current teams have pledged a multi-year partnership with the category. 

It means that all current 10 teams will continue to sponsor a livery and driver in the all-female category for years to come. 

This includes Cadillac, who will join F1 in 2026, before extending its reach to the F1 Academy grid as a sponsor in 2027.

F1 Academy has also announced a major rule change that will allow drivers who have competed in the two previous seasons to be granted an exemption to race in the series for a third season, in accordance with the updated 2027 regulations.

The series has stated that the rule will be granted “exclusively to drivers whose performance indicates strong potential for continued growth”.

Highlighting the support from the F1 grid, F1 Academy managing director Susie Wolff said: “The commitment of long-term support from all ten current Formula 1 teams, and the addition of Cadillac to our grid from 2027, sends a powerful message about the future of F1 Academy. 

“We’re not just providing a platform for the current generation of female drivers; together, we’re building a pathway to support generations of talent to come. 

“We continue to be impressed by the depth of female talent coming out of the world of karting and are encouraged by the growth and strength of the emerging talent pool. 

“A sharpened focus on individualised talent development, including the opportunity for drivers with high potential to compete in up to three seasons, will give stand out drivers the support and platform needed to fully realise their potential, while ensuring that the F1 Academy grid consistently features the very best female talent.”