A local racer is taking her next step towards becoming a full-time Formula 1 driver.
Comox Valley native Nicole Havrda announced Monday she would be joining the all-female F1 ACADEMY in American Express colours for 2025.
Havrda said she’s honoured to partner with American Express for her F1 ACADEMY debut and is looking forward to the F1 Montreal Grand Prix this June.
“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.”
The 19-year-old first started karting in Canada in 2019 and eventually graduated to open-wheel racing in 2022.
She made history in 2023 becoming the first female Formula Pro USA Champion taking home the title at both SFR FA2 and the Formula Pro USA Winter Series.
2024 saw Havrda compete in the Formula Regional Americas Championship, finishing sixth place overall with four podium appearances.
She’ll operate the #2 American Express car for her rookie campaign in F1 Academy which will be operated by Hitech Grand Prix.
