Glossop speedster eyes top prize

Glossop motorsport star Alisha Palmowski is gearing up for her second season in F1 Academy, which gets underway this weekend in Shanghai.  

After a fifth-place finish in her debut campaign, the 19-year-old has her sights set on going all the way this time round. 

“I am entering this year on a championship charge!” the Red Bull Racing driver told the Chronicle ahead of the season opener. 

“I have worked harder than ever over the winter and have had time to reflect on last season and what improvements I need to make.  

“I have addressed all my weaknesses from last year with the help of Red Bull Racing and have undergone an intense pre-season training programme to make sure I am as mentally and physically prepared as possible for what is to come, so I am confident I can achieve my ultimate goal of being F1 Academy Champion.”  

While Palmowski’s debut year was largely positive, having landed a race win and an impressive five podiums, she didn’t have it entirely her own way. 

The talented teen had her fair share of tough weekends, including in Singapore, when she came away empty handed for the first time.  

But the Simmondley resident admits these setbacks may have been a blessing going into the new season. 

“Coming into my second season in F1 Academy, I am so much better prepared and a lot calmer, as I feel like it’s less of the unknown and I know not to underestimate the scale of the challenge ahead.  

“I learnt so much about myself as a person last year as well as a driver and I’ve worked a lot on my mindset and mental approach coming into this season which is the key element and biggest change that I think will make the difference for me.”  

Palmowski has fond memories of Shanghai, having raced to victory there in her first ever F1 Academy race, and is hoping to repeat the feat in 2026. 

“I’m very confident heading into Shanghai and I’m obviously keen to get the year off to a good start.   

“Equally, I must play a long game this year as I believe having a wise head and the ability to make considered decisions under pressure will make the difference by the end of the year, so as long as we can be consistent, that will be key.  Having said that, of course I want to win!” 

The former St Phillip Howard student will take to the grid on Saturday afternoon, with Race 1 getting underway at 13:45 UK time, while Race 2 takes place from 10:40 on Sunday.