Shanghai – Race 1: Nina Gademan alone in the lead, a tricky start for Lisa Billard

She is among the favorites for this 2026 season of F1 Academy, Nina Gademan answered the call. Supported by AlpineThe driver who started from pole position in Race 1 thanks to the reverse grid rule didn't falter, leading from start to finish ahead of Spain's Natalia Granada. Emma Felbermayr, who had a more eventful race marked by several battles with Ariela Ferreira, took third place and the final step on the podium. Conversely, the situation wasn't as positive for Lisa Billard, who finished eighth.

Starting third on the grid, the French driver had a poor start, losing several positions by the time she reached the first corner. However, she remained focused and able to capitalize on various opportunities, ultimately scoring her first F1 Academy point on the eve of Race 2, where she will start sixth. While starts remain her main area for improvement at this stage of her young career, there's no doubt that a better launch could allow her to showcase her race pace more effectively.

Ahead of her, Alisha Palmowski made a strong comeback, climbing from eighth to fifth. Among the most anticipated drivers on the grid was the British driver, supported by... Red Bull crossed the finish line not far from Rafaela Ferreira, and ahead of Payton Westcott, the new driver representing Mercedes BenzThe rookies are definitely sharp at the start of this season, as three of them scored points on Saturday, before tackling the most lucrative race of the weekend.

Finally, in terms of incidents, Alba Larsen did not have her dream first race as the standard-bearer of Classic Ferrari for saleBattling in the pack, the Danish driver lost her front wing in the process. This brought out the safety car, but she didn't pit, subsequently losing all the benefit of her efforts. Meanwhile, in her first race in the category, France's Jade Jacquet managed to avoid the pitfalls, finishing in 13th position.

The second and final race of the weekend in F1 Academy will be available to follow from 3:30 am (French time) this Sunday, March 15.

ALSO READ > Shanghai – Qualifying: Alisha Palmowski dominates, Lisa Billard close behind the Top 5

F1 Academy – Shanghai (China)
The classification of Race 1