Hitech F1 Academy heads Stateside for Austin challenge
Round 5 – Circuit of The Americas – 22–25 October
Hitech heads to the United States this weekend for Round 5 of the F1 ACADEMY season, with three races at the Circuit of The Americas offering a fresh challenge as the 2026 edition of the championship enters its final stages.
Following an encouraging last round at Zandvoort, Rachel Robertson arrives in Austin 12th in the Drivers’ Standings with 22 points. Having scored in four consecutive races, the PUMA driver from Scotland will be targeting a place in the top 10 by the end of the season, with just five points separating her from 10th-placed Ferreira.
American driver Ava Dobson also heads to her home race looking to build momentum. Currently 15th in the standings with eight points, Dobson will be aiming to add to her tally across the three races and close the gap to the drivers ahead.
Joining the Hitech line-up is Swedish driver Alexia Danielsson, who makes her F1 ACADEMY debut as the Wild Card entrant in the #45 TeamViewer-operated by Hitech car.
The 17-year-old arrives following an impressive Rookie Test in Navarra, where she topped the afternoon session and set the second-fastest time overall. Competing in Formula 4 CEZ this season, Danielsson has recorded five points-scoring finishes and will use the Austin weekend to gain valuable experience as she targets a place on the 2027 grid.
Her debut will also feature a special-edition TeamViewer livery celebrating the Forward Together campaign, highlighting the role of communities in supporting women’s progression in sport and technology.
The 5.513km Circuit of The Americas returns to the F1 ACADEMY calendar for the first time since 2023. Known for its dramatic elevation changes, fast opening-sector esses and technical corners, COTA will test the drivers’ adaptability and precision.
With just one 40-minute Free Practice session before Qualifying, preparation will be crucial. The weekend’s three-race format adds another challenge, with Friday’s Opening Race, Saturday’s Reverse Grid Race and Sunday’s Feature Race providing multiple opportunities to score valuable points.
Dan Hodder, Hitech F1 Academy Team Manager:
“Austin is an exciting challenge for the team, particularly with limited practice time and three races across the weekend. Rachel has shown real consistency over the last few rounds, and we’ll be looking to build on that momentum as she targets a place in the top 10 in the championship.”
“Ava will be keen to make the most of her home race, while Alexia joins us off the back of a very encouraging Rookie Test in Navarra. It’s a great opportunity for her to gain valuable experience in F1 ACADEMY, and we’ll be working hard to give all three drivers the best possible platform to deliver strong results.”
