In a thrilling debut to the 2025 F1 Academy season, Alisha Palmowski won the opening sprint race in Shanghai, leading a one-two finish for Campos Racing. The victory unfolded on March 22, 2025, as Palmowski, who started fourth on the grid, capitalized on a mechanical issue that plagued long-time leader Nina Gademan. The race, filled with drama and three safety car periods, set the stage for an intense contest where Palmowski ultimately fended off her teammate Chloe Chambers, who finished just behind her in second place. Maya Weug of MP Motorsport rounded out the podium in third.
The event, the first reverse-grid race since 2023, began with Gademan securing pole position after a strategic performance in qualifying. However, after a strong start that saw her immediately take the lead, her race took a turn for the worse on the penultimate lap when she slowed due to a mechanical problem, handing the lead to Palmowski.
The race had an unpredictable start, with Shi Wei spinning on the first lap, which led to the first safety car deployment. Shortly after the racing resumed, heavy incidents continued to plague the competition, causing multiple neutralizations. Aurelia Nobels and Lia Block collided, resulting in another safety car deployment, while Nicola Havrda was also taken out in a crash with Chloe Chong.
Despite these interruptions, Palmowski demonstrated extraordinary skill and determination. After a series of restarts, she regained momentum and successfully maintained her position at the front. Without losing her composure, she resisted the challenge posed by her teammate Chambers in the final moments of the race, finishing just 0.206 seconds ahead.
Alisha Palmowski, a rising star who is backed by Red Bull Racing, expressed her excitement following the race, stating, "This win is an amazing start to the season, and I'm looking forward to building on this momentum in the races to come." The win was particularly sweet for Palmowski, who had previously excelled in the GB4 series and was eager to continue her successful trajectory in the F1 Academy.
Chambers, having been eagerly chasing her teammate, set the fastest lap of the race at 2:04.580, reflecting her fierce competitiveness throughout the event.
Upon finishing, Chambers commented, "I gave it my all to catch Alisha. It’s a great feeling to secure a one-two for Campos Racing, but I’m determined to get that win next time!" Meanwhile, Weug, who finished third, praised the overall performance and competitiveness of her team during the race.
The race encapsulated the spirit and thrilling unpredictability of the F1 Academy, with significant lessons on teamwork, resilience, and the fine line between victory and loss. With the next race of the season scheduled for March 23, 2025, the competitors are set for another showdown, as they resume the fight for supremacy in the academy's ranks. This race, alongside the errors and decisions made during the event, will surely shape their strategies moving forward.
Palmowski, with her rapid rise in motorsport fame, continues to impress as she sets her sights not only on winning more races but also on ensuring her development as a driver remains paramount. Following this dramatic first race, all eyes will be on her and her team as they prepare for the next challenge.
The results showcased that while technical issues can dash hopes, determination and skill can create victory from adversity, benefiting both Palmowski and her team. With the next race on the horizon, the anticipation for further action only intensifies.
