MATHILDA PAATZ Earns Aston Martin F1 Academy Seat After Beating 3 Others

November 29, 2025

• MATHILDA PAATZ earned her spot the hard way, outpacing three other drivers in a head-to-head evaluation at Mugello Circuit to secure Aston Martin’s F1 Academy seat for 2026. The 17-year-old German didn’t just win the shootout – she was fast enough to earn a full spot in Aston Martin’s Driver Academy development program, showing this wasn’t just about filling a quota but recognizing genuine speed.
• The rookie brings solid credentials from French Formula 4 and F4 CEZ, where she grabbed her first podium at Red Bull Ring, plus experience from the Montreal F1 Academy round as Gatorade’s wild card entry. Racing director Nuno Pinto praised her consistency and maturity alongside the raw pace, suggesting Aston Martin sees long-term potential beyond just the 2026 F1 Academy season.
• JESSICA HAWKINS, Aston Martin’s driver ambassador and F1 Academy head, emphasized how the series creates visibility and support for emerging talent while inspiring the next generation. The move also means TINA HAUSMANN is moving on from the program, with the team wishing her well as she transitions to whatever comes next in her racing career.

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