ALBA LARSEN Claims P2 in Shanghai, Eyes First Podium After Strong Quali

March 13, 2026

• ALBA LARSEN secured her first front row start in F1 Academy at Shanghai, qualifying P2 behind ALISHA PALMOWSKI who claimed pole with a four-tenth advantage after LARSEN made an error on her fastest lap.
• The 17-year-old Ferrari driver matched her best circuit result from 2025 when she finished fourth in Race 2, now targeting her maiden podium finish with strong race pace from the front row.
• LARSEN acknowledged the gap to PALMOWSKI needs closing but emphasized confidence in race pace and Ferrari partnership satisfaction, with Charles Leclerc noting Shanghai’s challenging characteristics that somehow suit her driving style.
• PALMOWSKI previously won the reverse grid race at Shanghai in 2025, giving both front row starters proven form at the circuit as championship battle intensifies early in the season.

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