The schedule for the first round of the 2026 F1 Academy season in China

After Formula 1, The Formula 2 and Formula 3The F1 Academy is back in action in China from March 13th to 15th.

ALSO READ > The schedule for the 2026 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix

Although some drivers from the 2025 class are still involved, the 2026 F1 Academy season opens a new chapter. The top three from last season have reached the two-season limit and are now pursuing their careers elsewhere. Dorian Pin joined the European Le Mans Series with Duqueine Team in LMP2, Maya Weug continues her journey within the Classic Ferrari for sale Driver Academy and participated in the Rookie Test of Formula E with Porsche, while Chloe Chambers was also present during the Rookie Test with Mahindra.

The status of favorite now belongs to Ella Lloyd (McLaren), Alisha Palmowski (Red Bull) and Nina Gademan (AlpineAll three, having won in 2025, will try to turn their experience into a strong contender for the title. Seventeen-year-old Dane Alba Larsen, now backed by Ferrari, could also be a spoiler after several top-five finishes last season.

The rookies will also be ones to watch. During the Rookie Test held in Navarra to identify emerging talent, Ella Stevens set the fastest time and joins Rodin with McLaren support. American Payton Westcott, who replaces Doriane Pin in the seat supported by Mercedes BenzShe too arrives with solid credentials.

The grid will also feature two promising French drivers. Sixteen-year-old Lisa Billard, runner-up in the Rookie Test and a standout during her Wild Card appearance in Singapore in 2025, is embarking on her first full season with ART Grand Prix. She will be joined by Jade Jacquet, runner-up in the 2025 French F4 Women's Championship, and supported by WilliamsIn an open championship, where the reverse grid of the Top 8 for Race 1 can reshuffle the cards, surprises are always possible.

📊 The Shanghai International Circuit (China) in figures

• Length: 5,451 km
• Turns: 16
• First appearance on the calendar: 2025
• Number of laps in both races: 13 towers
• Distance of the two races: 70,863 km
• Record lap time in F1 Academy: 2:03.379 (Maya Weug in 2025)

🕒 Schedule and TV channels for the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai

(Paris time)

F1 Academy

Friday 13 March
2h10 - Free Trials 1
7h05 - Qualifications

Saturday March, 14
6h45 - Race 1 (Canal + Sport)

Sunday 15 March
3h40 - Race 2 (Canal + Sport)