Formula 1 Returns: F1 Academy Season Resumes at Zandvoort
The F1 Academy season resumes this weekend at Zandvoort, coinciding with the Dutch Grand Prix. British driver Abbi Pulling currently leads the championship with an impressive 66-point advantage, positioning her as a strong contender for the title of second F1 Academy champion.
This weekend marks the halfway point of the season, set to be broadcast live following the F1 qualifying session on Saturday. As the tension builds in the racing community, fans are eager to know what has transpired so far and what lies ahead for the remainder of 2024.
### Abbi Pulling’s Dominance in the F1 Academy
Pulling has consistently outperformed her competitors since the season opener in Jeddah, where Mercedes junior Doriane Pin initially looked like a favorite after clinching pole position. However, controversy marred that race when Pin did not slow down after the checkered flag, leading to a significant penalty and allowing Pulling to take first place.
Since then, Pulling has showcased her prowess on the track, claiming victory in both races in Miami, extending her lead to 34 points over Doriane Pin heading into Spain. In Barcelona, Pulling again excelled, securing a race win and a second-place finish while Pin struggled to maintain her position.
### Current Standings in the F1 Academy
As the championship unfolds, Pulling leads the standings with 147 points, followed by both Doriane Pin and Chloe Chambers tied with 81 points. The standings highlight a competitive field, with Nerea Marti and Bianca Bustamante not far behind.
| Driver | Points |
|———————|——–|
| 1) Abbi Pulling | 147 |
| 2) Doriane Pin | 81 |
| 3) Chloe Chambers | 81 |
| 4) Nerea Marti | 63 |
| 5) Bianca Bustamante | 57 |
| 6) Hamda Al Qubaisi | 55 |
| 7) Maya Weug | 51 |
| 8) Jessica Edgar | 22 |
| 9) Tina Hausmann | 14 |
| 10) Amna Al Qubaisi | 12 |
### Upcoming Races in the F1 Academy Calendar
The season continues with races in Singapore on September 20-22, followed by back-to-back weekends in Qatar (November 29 to December 1) and the season finale in Abu Dhabi (December 6-8). Fans can catch every F1 Academy session live, ensuring no moment of the action is missed.
### Can Anyone Challenge Pulling?
Pulling’s remarkable form this season, with four wins and two second-place finishes, has placed her in a commanding position to secure the championship. However, the potential for a comeback remains, particularly for Pin, who has battled injuries earlier in the season but showed promise in Jeddah.
This weekend at Zandvoort presents an opportunity for Pulling to further solidify her position at the top, as fans and competitors alike are keen to see if she can withstand the mounting pressure of the title chase.
### Live Coverage of the Dutch Grand Prix
The Dutch Grand Prix weekend will feature a packed schedule as Formula 1 makes its return after a summer break. Coverage includes a drivers’ press conference and multiple practice, qualifying, and race sessions throughout the weekend.
As momentum builds for this thrilling chapter in F1 Academy competition, the spotlight is on Abbi Pulling. Will she continue her dominant run, or can her rivals mount a challenge? Stay tuned for all the updates!
