Preview
MONTREAL PREVIEW: Talking points ahead of Round 2
Almost two months after the season opener, the 2026 F1 ACADEMY season resumes this weekend as the paddock makes its way to Montreal.
The Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve produced some of last year’s most exciting races, and even more unmissable action is in store this time around. Before the on-track action kicks off, we’re here to give you a rundown of the biggest stories to watch out for in Canada.
THREE SHOTS AT SUCCESS
The Canadian fans provided an amazing atmosphere for the series’ debut there last year and this time around they’re being treated to a bumper weekend of racing as the new three-race format makes its debut. This round could be pivotal come the end of the season, with a maximum of 65 points for the drivers to play for and 145 on offer for the teams.
Also featuring at the penultimate round in Austin, the format sees the addition of the Opening Race on Saturday morning. “Be fast and be consistent” will be every driver’s mantra in Qualifying, with the grid for the Opening Race being set by their second-fastest time on Friday evening.
This will only add to the challenge that the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve already poses. Demanding for even the most experienced of drivers, there is no shortage of areas to catch them out. The opening chicane saw its fair share of clashes last year, while the infamous ‘Wall of Champions’ is never to be underestimated.
The weather forecast also paints a mixed picture, with the potential to throw more chaos the field’s way. The sun should be shining on Friday’s Free Practice and Qualifying along with Saturday’s Opening Race, but there’s a high likelihood of showers during both remaining races. This will be a real test of car control, giving those further down the grid the chance to shake up the order.
CAN LARSEN BOUNCE BACK?
A weekend that looked set for success eventually ended in disappointment for Alba Larsen in Shanghai. Qualifying on the front row for the first time in F1 ACADEMY, the Ferrari driver appeared to have a win firmly in her grasp.
However, she would leave with only four points to show for her efforts in China. A risky move on Emma Felbermayr in the Reverse Grid Race backfired, breaking her front wing in the process. Snatching the lead of the Feature Race from polesitter Alisha Palmowski off the line, Larsen looked set for victory until a clumsy Safety Car restart sent her bouncing through the gravel at the final corner.
Salvaging a P8 finish, the Dane sits 27 points adrift of Standings leader Felbermayr. Montreal was a strong venue for Larsen last year, with two P5 finishes in the three races, but she has to go for more this time around. If she is to keep her title aspirations alive, a maiden podium or win will be much needed.
CAN FELBERMAYR AND RODIN STRIKE AGAIN IN MONTREAL?
Emma Felbermayr may have entered the season as an underdog, but the Audi driver’s performance quickly made the rest of the field and the fans take notice of her.
Undoubtedly, Round 1 was Felbermayr’s most impressive performance in the series and one in which she looked to have few weaknesses. After securing her first top three result in Qualifying, the 19-year-old pulled off decisive moves in the Reverse Grid Race to finish third. This was followed by a flawless Feature Race, as she capitalised on Palmowski’s slow start and Larsen’s restart error to maintain full control of the lead.
READ MORE: Discover the new Disney x F1 ACADEMY merchandise collection in Montreal
Montreal is a welcome return for both Felbermayr and her Rodin Motorsport team after she claimed her maiden win there last year, while teammate Ella Lloyd delivered a hat-trick of P2 finishes. Looking to cement their places at the top of the Drivers’ and Teams’ Standings, Felbermayr will be keen to replicate the consistency she delivered in Shanghai, while Rodin will want Lloyd to push forward into podium contention in the hopes of moving her into the title fight.
ROOKIES CHASING ANOTHER STEP FORWARD
With six returning drivers on the grid, the rookies are going to have a hard time fighting towards the front, but several have already begun to make themselves known.
Payton Westcott looked the strongest of the newcomers, with the Mercedes driver achieving a P3 finish in the Feature Race. Meanwhile, Natalia Granada made history in the Reverse Grid Race, reaching the podium not only on her series debut, but also in her first single-seater race as well.
Lisa Billard, Megan Bruce and Ava Dobson all got their first points on the board and each will be looking to use that as a springboard for more this weekend. Round 2 will prove more difficult for the rookies, with all but Mathilda Paatz making their first visit to the Canadian circuit. With no prior testing at the track and only one Free Practice session before Qualifying, the rookies need to get on the pace quickly as the three races open up a wealth of opportunities for them.