Ferrari-backed Alba Larsen entered the 2026 F1 Academy with high ambitions, as the Danish driver looks to make the most of her second season in the series and the opportunity of being backed by an F1 team. After a rookie campaign plagued by missed opportunities, having narrowly missed out on podium finishes on several occasions, the 17 year-old has her sights set on securing podiums—and ultimately claiming the coveted title at the end of the year.
Explaining her goals for the 2026 F1 Academy season, Larsen said: “The aim is to go for the title and to go for the podiums. Every opportunity I get, we go for the big stuff. My confidence in the car grew a lot, and also the way I overtake and how direct and aggressive I am on track, I think I’ve learnt a lot.”
“I think the confidence in being able to know that I’m good at overtaking and defending in the races is definitely what I take from last year.”
Despite achieving a career-best qualifying result at the season opener in Shanghai, the start to her campaign has proven challenging. After damaging her front wing in Race 1, which caused her to drop down the field, Larsen made a costly mistake in Race 2 that resulted in her losing the lead after the safety car restart, when she ran wide into the gravel trap at the final corner.
Drawing inspiration from reigning F1 Academy Champion Doriane Pin’s campaign
Having finished 7th in the Drivers’ Standings with 70 points last year, the Ferrari junior will be hoping to end her time in F1 Academy on a stronger note and improve on her 2025 campaign. Heading into Montreal, she currently sits 9th in the standings with 4 points.
However, following the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian round, F1 Academy introduced an additional opening race for Montreal and Austin. Ultimately, this presents extra opportunities for Larsen and her fellow drivers to score more points or podiums.
Speaking about her chances at the title, the Danish driver said: “I think I’ll be able to have a good shot at getting on the podium [in the standings] but obviously a lot can happen – as we saw last year with Maya [Weug] having a little bit of bad luck sometimes.”
“What Doriane was really good at last year was being consistent. I think that’s a key point in making sure that you’re up there for every race, you don’t need to be on the podium every time but as long as you’re up there in the top five every race, I think you’ll have a good shot. That’s what we’re trying to do.”
Having raced in Tommy Hilfiger colours last year, she returns to the grid in 2026 sporting the iconic Ferrari red. With renewed determination, Larsen believes she has prepared thoroughly to mount a strong season.
“I’m so glad to be back in F1 ACADEMY and now with Ferrari, it’s even bigger and better this year I think. I just hope that I can do my very best. I think Ferrari and I have prepared for the season very well and are ready to take it on.”
