The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile has confirmed a revision to one of its racing calendars after recent disruptions to the Formula 1 season. The changes follow the cancellation of both the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the Bahrain Grand Prix, which were called off due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Although Formula 1 lost two full race weekends, the impact on the F1 Academy was more limited. The series had only been scheduled to race in Saudi Arabia, meaning it needed to replace just that event while still maintaining its planned 14-race calendar.
To solve this, the FIA has approved the addition of two extra races, which will be integrated into existing race weekends rather than adding new venues. Both the Canadian Grand Prix and the United States Grand Prix will now feature three F1 Academy races instead of the usual two.
A new “opening race” format has been introduced and will take place at the start of each of those weekends. This addition not only restores the race count but also increases the level of competition, giving drivers more chances to score valuable points in the championship.
The grid for this opening race will be determined in a unique way. Instead of using the fastest qualifying lap, drivers will be ranked based on their second-best lap time. This rule is designed to reward consistency, forcing drivers to deliver strong performances across multiple laps rather than relying on a single standout effort.
The existing structure of the weekend remains intact, with the reverse-grid race and feature race still part of the schedule. However, the addition of a third race means more points are available, raising the stakes for drivers competing for the title.
Fans attending the Canadian and United States rounds will benefit from increased on-track action, with three races scheduled across each weekend. The Montreal event is set for May 22–24, while the Austin round will take place from October 23–25 as the penultimate race of the season.
So far, the 2026 F1 Academy campaign has only completed one round, held at the Shanghai International Circuit. Early results have already created an interesting championship battle.
Nina Gademan claimed victory in the reverse-grid race for MP Motorsport, earning maximum points, but currently sits third overall after finishing fourth in the feature race. At the top of the standings is Emma Felbermayr, who won the feature race and holds a six-point lead.
Meanwhile, Alisha Palmowski remains close behind, keeping the early title fight competitive. With additional races now added to the calendar, the championship battle is expected to become even more intense as the season progresses.