The mission of F1 Academy is to offer 20 young women a global platform to showcase their driving talents in elite motorsport, but most importantly, to provide a pathway for developing a successful racing career. Series sophomore Emma Felbermayr is well on her way to achieving this, and with Audi Formula 1 Team’s backing, she is the only driver to score points in every race thus far this year.
Now in its fourth season, the championship includes 14 races over six dates on some of F1’s premier circuits. Felbermayr has claimed two of those victories, trailing only Red Bull’s Alisha Palmowski, who leads with three victories halfway through the 2026 season. With two races in Zandvoort, three in Austin, and the final two rounds in Las Vegas yet to be contested, Felbermayr is well-positioned for a championship battle in her second and final year in the series (F1 Academy imposes a two-year limit).
The young Austrian’s achievements extend beyond only this year, having claimed her first win in the series in 2025 with Rodin Motorsports under the Sauber name—before the team rebranded as Audi. Moreover, her strong track performances have included several solid qualifying results and exceptional comeback drives, regardless of grid position.
I spoke with the 19-year-old during the Canadian Grand Prix to discuss her experiences in the F1 Academy, her karting days, and her future aspirations. Initially, I perceived Felbermayr as a bit shy and perhaps somewhat unprepared for media interactions compared to her F1 peers, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. “No big deal,” I thought. However, as our discussion progressed, it became clear it was less about shyness or lack of preparation, and more about her being a grounded teenager.
Supported by her family (including her father and grandfather who raced at Le Mans), Audi leadership, and the guidance of Academy head, Susie Wolff, Felbermayr emphasized that she’s determined to seize every opportunity available to her. A self-described “open book,” she stressed during her conversation with The Drive that regarding her future pursuits, she’s in no hurry to rush—it’s all about performing well now and allowing those outcomes to shape her future.
And like many others—including myself—she enjoys a good binge on Netflix after a hectic weekend at the track.
Jerry Perez: Let’s start with your karting years. How did you get into it, how old were you, and what was the pathway to F1 Academy like?
Emma Felbermayr: I began karting at the age of seven. My brother received his kart at six, and I wanted to give it a shot after that. From that moment, I never looked back. Initially, it was more for enjoyment and just a hobby. I competed in national races, but nothing international. After a while, around 12-13 years old, I wanted to test myself against the best drivers globally, so we transitioned to international racing, which was a significant step up from national events. It was challenging, especially at that age, because drivers typically start racing big international events between eight and 10, but I didn’t enter until I was 13, which is quite late. I had to catch up on skills others had learned years earlier, making that the most significant challenge during those years.
Ultimately, I participated in one international championship, which encompassed the world championship, European championships, and WSK races. It was a very demanding period.
What was the toughest aspect of transitioning from karting to F1 Academy?
I would say the toughest part is the spotlight you receive. In karting, not many people are focused on you, you know? Coping with the attention and pressure is challenging, and now I’m also competing in the Italian Formula 4 championship, where that’s present as well. I always strive to excel in everything I undertake.
Also, the extensive travel for the championship made everything more hectic. There was so much more to focus on and learn.
How do you feel about your performance this season—how is it in the car, with the team?
So far, I believe I’m utilizing my potential to the fullest. Last year, I felt somewhat lost, and as I mentioned, I wasn’t adequately prepared for anything here since I was new to it all. This year, I’m really feeling confident with the team. I think last year, we had some differences or challenges, but we worked diligently through the winter to align everything and to prepare myself as effectively as possible. Thus, together with the Rodin group, we’ve put in a lot of effort to achieve what we have thus far, and we’ll keep pushing hard.
I believe the winter preparation was significantly better than the previous year, so I feel much better equipped. I know what to expect now. Last year was all new to me—I transitioned directly from karting to this championship, which is quite a leap.
What does your wellness routine involve? How do you maintain physical and mental fitness for racing at this level globally, amid all F1 Academy commitments?
I hit the gym daily, and depending on the day, I do cardio or follow another scheduled workout. I receive substantial support from Audi, my physiotherapist, along with nutritional support, electrolyte replenishment trackside, and advice on what to take before racing. The same strategy applies for jet lag. Last year, I underestimated the impact of jet lag, and adapting to time zones could be challenging, so I’ve started acclimating to those time zones at home because sometimes I arrive only a day before racing, leaving little time to adjust.
I also attend university, so I have to keep that in mind with everything else. Nonetheless, I strive to make everything I undertake enjoyable because, without fun, it doesn’t work.
What do you do to unwind when a race weekend wraps up?
At home, I like meeting friends, dining out, but I also appreciate staying in and enjoying a good Netflix evening, to be honest. So, lying in bed watching Netflix is probably the best way to decompress after a hectic week (laughs).
Former F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin received an F1 test opportunity from Mercedes, while Abby Pulling is now racing in GB3 and testing in Formula E. Do you believe the best reward for excelling or winning in the Academy should be an F1 test?
It’s wonderful to witness drivers like Doriane receiving these chances, demonstrating what is achievable through hard work and outstanding performance. For me now, the focus is on ongoing development and learning step-by-step. Doriane spent years in LMP2, which is already a significantly more complex car than an F1 Academy car, so I think the transition would be too great for me personally since the degree of downforce differs vastly between F4 and F1. My priority remains on what I’m engaged in now and maximizing that before considering the next steps.
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**Audi F1 Academy Driver Emma Felbermayr: Her Progression from Karting to Formula 1 Recognition**
Emma Felbermayr, a name that has quickly become prominent in motorsport, is making headlines as a competitor in the Audi F1 Academy. Her transition from the simple beginnings of karting to the adrenaline-fueled realm of Formula 1 exemplifies her skill, resolve, and fervor for racing.
**Initial Steps in Karting**
Emma’s passion for racing sparked at an early age. Raised in a family that valued motorsports, she was introduced to karting around the age of eight. Her first time behind the wheel took place at a local karting venue, where she swiftly displayed her inherent talent for speed and control. Emma’s early karting years featured countless local championships, where she frequently outshone her contemporaries, earning her a status as an emerging star.
**Advancing Through the Ranks**
As Emma refined her abilities in karting, she started to enter more esteemed events. She took part in national and international karting championships, facing heightened competition. Her unwavering dedication and commitment to bettering herself yielded several podium finishes, capturing the attention of talent scouts and racing teams.
In her teenage years, Emma moved on to single-seater racing, commencing with the Formula 4 series. This pivotal step in her growth as a driver allowed her to adapt to the intricacies of open-wheel racing. Her performance in Formula 4 was impressive, resulting in a fast-tracked ascent to higher tiers, including the Eurocup Formula Renault and the FIA Formula 3 Championship.
**Becoming Part of the Audi F1 Academy**
Emma’s defining moment arrived when she was selected to join the Audi F1 Academy, a program aimed at nurturing young talent and readying them for the demands of Formula 1. This chance not only confirmed her hard work but also set her on a course towards potentially becoming one of the first female drivers to compete in Formula 1 full-time.
The Audi F1 Academy granted Emma access to premium coaching, advanced simulators, and opportunities to collaborate with seasoned engineers and mechanics. This environment enabled her to further hone her skills, emphasizing race strategy, technical input, and physical fitness—crucial elements for success in Formula 1.
**Obstacles and Achievements**
Emma’s path has not been devoid of challenges. The competitive nature of the motorsport industry, coupled with her identity as a female driver, has exposed her to extra scrutiny. Nonetheless, her tenacity and resolve have propelled her past obstacles. Emma has become a spokesperson for women in motorsport, leveraging her platform to motivate young girls to chase their racing aspirations.
Her performances in the Audi F1 Academy have been truly extraordinary. Emma has continuously showcased her capability to compete at a top tier, garnering admiration from peers and mentors alike. Her remarkable lap times and strategic racing have distinguished her within the academy, with many prognosticating a promising future ahead.
**Future Prospects**
As Emma Felbermayr forges ahead in the Audi F1 Academy, the motorsport community eagerly anticipates her next steps. Her narrative embodies persistence, talent, and breaking down barriers. With Audi’s support and her growing following, Emma is ready to establish her presence in Formula 1, inspiring the next wave of drivers along the way.
In conclusion, Emma Felbermayr’s rise from karting to the Audi F1 Academy showcases the commitment and passion essential for success in motorsport. As she prepares for the challenges that lie ahead, her story stands as a source of hope and inspiration for aspiring racers worldwide.