16-year-old Alba Larsen has been named the best rookie in Formula 1's F1 Academy, even though she finished just outside the podium in Shanghai.
16-year-old Alba Hurup Larsen has distinguished herself as the leading 'rookie' in the first section of the F1 Academy series, which took place in connection with the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Shanghai.
The young woman's performance in the race car exceeded all expectations as she crossed the finish line in fourth place in both heats, just outside the podium places.
Although a time penalty in Sunday's lob resulted in seventh place, Alba Larsen finished the weekend as the best-placed debutant and now occupies fifth place in the overall championship.
– It's a start to the season that exceeds our expectations.
"It has been an intense weekend in Shanghai, where the team and the fans have welcomed us well," says Alba Hurup Larsen.
Alba Larsen is the best of the new recruits in Formula 1's academy.
Alba Hurup Larsen already made her mark early in qualifying with the third fastest time.
As the race progressed, she moved up through the field, but a time penalty after a collision with another driver meant she fell three places back.
In Sunday's lob, where more points are awarded, Alba Hurup Larsen started from third position behind more experienced choirs such as Maya Weug and Doriane Pin.
However, the Dane managed to maintain her position until the ninth lap, where she was overtaken by Chloe Chambers, who previously had a card for Haas.
– It was an acceptable lap. It's a shame to lose a potential podium finish, but I'm happy with the overall result of the weekend.
– I am competing against experienced opponents, but I am sure that the bigger results will come. I am looking forward to the next lob, says Alba Hurup Larsen.
The next installment of the F1 Academy 2025 will be held in conjunction with the Saudi Arabian Formula 1 Grand Prix in Jeddah on April 18-20.
