Payton Westcott made an impressive start to her 2026 F1 Academy campaign, claiming 3rd in Race 2 at the season-opener Chinese GP. The American entered the season with prior experience in the championship, having competed as the wildcard entry in Las Vegas last year. She also caught attention at the inaugural F1 Academy Rookie Test, where a top three finish has helped her secure a full-time seat for the 2026 season.
After starting 4th for Race 2, Westcott showcased mature and composed racecraft as she battled fiercely with returning drivers such as Alisha Palmowski and Emma Felbermayr. While Race 1 proved to be a learning experience for the American, Race 2 highlighted clear improvement in her race execution. This earned Westcott a well-deserved 3rd-place finish.
Reflecting on her race, she said: “I would say it was definitely a very smart race, I didn’t take any major risks, I definitely improved from yesterday with my aggression at the beginning and I was a bit more on it.”
“I think that while I didn’t make up a position at the start, I was still able to stay with the front pack and made some decent decisions that put me in a good position.”
Keeping expectations grounded despite strong start to the season
While Alba Larsen and Felbermayr managed to get ahead of polesitter Palmowski, who struggled to get off the line, Westcott ran 4th until drama unfolded for Larsen, who ran wide at the final corner during the safety car restart and dropped down the order.
Keeping her race clean and staying out of trouble, the 17 year-old capitalised on the opportunity and crossed the line in 3rd, securing her maiden F1 Academy podium. Despite her strong start to the 2026 F1 Academy season, Westcott remains grounded and mindful of the long campaign ahead. She emphasised that maintaining momentum will come down to thorough preparation for each upcoming round to keep delivering strong results.
Westcott said: “Mostly just preparing for all the tracks because all of them are going to be new to me, which is a disadvantage I have with being a rookie.”
“Definitely doing a bit of sim time, being in the car as much as possible, and trying to stay prepared. I’m keeping my expectations level and not expecting too much. I’m keeping my head straight.”
Following the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian round, the next F1 Academy round will take place in Montreal from 22nd-24th May. The rookie currently sits 4th in the Drivers’ Standings with 18 points, underlining her strong potential.
