P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 Academy is back racing again this weekend in Saudi Arabia for its second season after a successful inaugural campaign
The F1 Academy, an all-female single-seater series, will have seven rounds on three continents this season, featured on the F1 support bill with live streaming on Sky Sports F1 in the UK. Launched in November 2022, the series aims to provide more opportunities for talented female drivers following the end of W Series, with Susie Wolff as Managing Director. The initiative, backed by Formula 1, prepares and supports female drivers aged 16 to 25 for higher single-seater racing levels, with the goal of securing spots in Formula 1. Teams like ART Grand Prix, Campos Racing, MP Motorsport, Prema Racing, and Rodin Motorsport are competing this season, with changes in Formula 1’s involvement in nominating drivers and financial contributions. The race format for each round includes two races over three days, with practice sessions, qualifying, and points awarded following a structure similar to Formula 1. The 2024 race calendar, points system, and increased opportunities for female drivers represent a significant step forward in promoting gender equality in motorsport.
