Sixteen‑year‑old American talent Payton Westcott will represent the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team in the 2026 F1 Academy season, competing with Prema Racing in the all‑female series.
Westcott, who impressed in Italian F4, Euro 4, and UAE Formula 4 in 2025, steps into the program following the success of Doriane Pin, last year’s F1 Academy champion. Alongside her Academy campaign, she will continue racing in Italian F4 to further sharpen her skills.
“I’m excited to join the Mercedes family for the 2026 F1 Academy season,” said Westcott. “It’s an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and push my limits both on and off the track.”
Mercedes Driver Development Advisor Gwen Lagrue praised Westcott’s maturity and adaptability:
“At just 16, Payton has already shown speed and consistency in highly competitive environments. We believe this dual program will accelerate her progression and lay the foundation for her long‑term ambitions in single‑seater racing.”
Born in California in 2009, Westcott began karting at six and quickly rose through the ranks, earning podiums in the US Pro Kart Series and California Pro Kart Challenge before moving to Europe. Her breakthrough came in 2025 with multiple podiums in single‑seaters and a standout performance at the F1 Academy finale in Las Vegas, where she scored points as a Wild Card entry.
She will work closely with Doriane Pin, who will mentor her throughout the season. Pin noted:
“Payton has the motivation and mindset to make the most of this opportunity. I’m looking forward to supporting her as she continues to develop her career.”
The 2026 F1 Academy season begins at the Chinese Grand Prix (March 13–15, 2026) and will run across seven Formula 1 weekends, featuring 14 races worldwide.