19-year-old Canadian driver Nicole Havrda set for F1 Academy debut in season 2025

Why should boys have all the fun? This statement perfectly fits Canadian driver Nicole Havrda, who is set to make her mark on the Formula 1 scene in the upcoming 2025 season. Havrda has joined the F1 Academy grid for 2025 and will race for the Hitech Grand Prix with sponsorship from American Express.

Following a successful run in open-wheel racing, where she dominated over three seasons, Havrda is now gearing up for her F1 Academy debut. She is on the verge of making history after a series of remarkable achievements — becoming the first female driver to be crowned champion in Formula Pro USA, securing two top-five finishes in the Indian Racing League Championship, and winning three titles in SFR FA2. Havrda is also the first female driver to win the Formula Pro USA title.

“I’m honored to partner with American Express for my F1 Academy debut this upcoming season. Their support fuels my drive to compete at the highest level and I’m thrilled to represent a brand that champions performance, resilience, and ambition, both on and off the track,” said Havrda in a press release.
“From the very beginning of our F1 Academy sponsorship, Amex knew it was important to support women on and off track. We’re proud to continue spotlighting local women-owned small businesses on the Amex livery throughout the season and to have Nicole Havrda in the driver’s seat of it,” said American Express Vice President Shiz Suzuki. “We’re so excited to cheer for Nicole as she embarks on her F1 Academy journey and competes alongside so many other talented women drivers.”
The F1 Academy schedule features seven race weekends, including high-profile events at the Miami Grand Prix and Las Vegas Grand Prix. The winner of the F1 Academy Drivers’ Championship will earn a guaranteed, fully-sponsored seat in the GB3 Championship for the following season. Last season, Alpine’s Abbi Pulling claimed the F1 Academy title.
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With strong confidence, a track record of title-winning performances, and remarkable consistency, Havrda will set her sights on the coveted championship in 2025. Havrda began her racing journey at just 10 years old, starting with driving courses at Saratoga Speedway on Vancouver Island.