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ALISHA PALMOWSKI Eyes F1 Dream After Rising Through Manchester Karting Scene

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September 6, 2026

GRRL! SUMMARY:

  • ALISHA PALMOWSKI, 19, progressed from weekend karting at Trafford Park to competing in F1 Academy with Red Bull backing, racing before millions globally while inspiring grassroots female participation.
  • The Manchester driver cites 1970s Italian F1 competitor Lella Lombardi as major inspiration, targeting becoming the third woman ever to compete in Formula 1 after LOMBARDI and MARIA TERESA DE FILIPPIS.
  • PALMOWSKI competed as one of two-three females among 30-plus driver grids throughout her career, crediting F1 Academy’s Grand Prix visibility for transforming the sport’s gender landscape.
  • Next F1 Academy round scheduled for Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas this October as PALMOWSKI pursues progression toward Formula 1 with Red Bull support.

UPCOMING:

  • F1 Academy – Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas – October 2026

LINKS TO RACER'S PROFILE PAGES:

GRRL! summary based upon reporting by Phil Chapman originally appearing on www.bbc.com