Payton Westcott to Represent Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS in 2026 F1 Academy Season

California-born racer joins Prema Racing as Mercedes backs rising American talent in all-female single-seater series

American teenage racer Payton Westcott has been confirmed as the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team’s representative in the 2026 F1 Academy season, competing with Prema Racing in the all-female single-seater championship.

The 16-year-old will step into the Mercedes junior programme following a rapid rise through karting and junior formula categories, succeeding reigning F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin as the team’s nominated driver.

“I’m excited to join the Mercedes family for the 2026 F1 Academy season,” said Westcott. “They are an incredible team driven by passion, determination, and a constant pursuit of excellence. It’s an amazing opportunity to work with such a talented group of people who are committed to developing young talent.”

Westcott added that the upcoming season represents a key step in her development: “I’m looking forward to learning new tracks, continuing to grow my skill set both on and off the circuit, and pushing my limits every race weekend as I take the next big step in my career.”

Mercedes Confident in Rookie’s Potential

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Driver Development Advisor Gwen Lagrue welcomed Westcott to the programme while outlining realistic but ambitious expectations for her rookie campaign.

“We’re very pleased to welcome Payton Westcott to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team family for the 2026 F1 Academy season,” Lagrue said. “She steps into big shoes by succeeding Doriane, who set a very high benchmark within our programme. Payton is a rookie, but she has already demonstrated maturity, speed, and adaptability in highly competitive environments.”

Lagrue highlighted Westcott’s performances in the 2025 Italian Formula 4, Euro 4 Championship, and UAE Formula 4 series, noting that her dual programme in F1 Academy and Italian F4 during 2026 will accelerate her long-term development in single-seater racing.

From Karting Standout to Single-Seater Success

Born in California in 2009, Westcott began karting at just six years old and quickly established herself as a front-runner. She earned strong results in the United States Pro Kart Series, California Pro Kart Challenge, and finished third overall in the Challenge of the Americas.

Her early success led to selection for the Champions of the Future Academy Program and an F1 Academy ‘Discover Your Drive’ scholarship in 2024, opening the door to international competition in Europe.

In 2025, Westcott transitioned to single-seaters, competing in the Formula Winter Series, Italian F4 Championship, and E4 Championship, where she secured multiple podium finishes. She also claimed a Female Trophy victory in the Formula Winter Series and became the first and only female driver to top the UAE Trophy series.

Her standout performances earned her a Wild Card entry at the 2025 F1 Academy season finale in Las Vegas, where she impressed with a sixth-place finish in Race 1, scoring points against more experienced competitors.

Support from F1 Academy Champion Doriane Pin

Westcott will work closely with Doriane Pin, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Development Driver and the reigning F1 Academy champion, throughout the season.

“Payton has the motivation and mindset to make the most of this opportunity,” said Pin. “She’s a great up-and-coming talent with lots of room to keep progressing. I’m really happy to support her across the season, share what I’ve learned, and help guide her as she continues to develop.”

2026 F1 Academy Season Preview

The 2026 F1 Academy season begins at the Chinese Grand Prix from March 13–15. The championship will once again support Formula 1 across seven venues, featuring 14 races as part of the global F1 calendar.