Natalia Granada Joins PREMA Racing for the 2026 F1 Academy Championship
Natalia Granada has officially been confirmed as the final addition to PREMA Racing’s driver roster for the highly anticipated 2026 F1 Academy championship. This marks a significant milestone for the young Spanish racer, as she prepares to make her debut in the all-female series and her first competitive season in Formula 4 (F4) machinery. With the support of Sephora, a new partner of the series, Granada is set to kick off her single-seater career at the season opener in Shanghai, China.
A Promising Start in Karting
Born in 2008 near Barcelona, Granada’s journey in motorsport began at the tender age of 11 when she took her first steps into karting. Her talent quickly became evident as she rose through the ranks of local and regional Spanish competitions. Over the years, she advanced to national and international events, showcasing her skills on a larger stage. Her karting career culminated in participation in prestigious European and World Championship competitions, where she consistently demonstrated her potential.
Joining the Iron Dames Project
A pivotal moment in Granada’s early career came in 2023 when she joined the Iron Dames project, becoming the first driver selected for the team’s karting development program. Under the mentorship of Ferrari factory driver Miguel Molina, she received professional guidance within this globally recognized all-female racing initiative. This experience not only honed her driving skills but also provided her with invaluable insights into the world of competitive racing.
Transitioning to Car Racing
In 2024, Granada expanded her horizons by combining her continued Formula 4 testing with an initial foray into sportscar racing. She made her car racing debut in the Ligier European Series at Mugello, driving the Iron Dames-entered Ligier JS2R. This opportunity allowed her to collect valuable mileage and experience as she transitioned from karting to cars, setting the stage for her future in single-seater racing.
Impressive Performance in F1 Academy Rookie Test
Granada’s talent did not go unnoticed, as she was already on the radar of the F1 Academy after participating in the inaugural rookie test in 2025 at Navarra. During this test, she impressed with her consistent pace, finishing seventh fastest in the morning session and eighth in the afternoon. Her ability to secure solid top-ten results across the test further solidified her reputation as a promising driver.
Joining PREMA Racing’s Competitive Line-Up
At PREMA Racing, Granada will join a formidable team that includes Aston Martin-backed Mathilda Paatz and Mercedes-supported Payton Westcott. This three-car line-up positions PREMA as one of the most successful teams in the series. Granada’s entry also continues Spain’s representation in the championship, making her the third Spanish driver to compete in F1 Academy, following in the footsteps of 2023 champion Marta García and race winner Nerea Martí.
A Historic Moment for F1 Academy
With her debut in the F1 Academy, Granada becomes only the second driver to start her first F4 race in the series, following Chloe Chong in the inaugural season. This milestone not only highlights her rapid ascent in the motorsport world but also underscores the growing opportunities for female drivers in competitive racing.
Looking Ahead
As she prepares for the upcoming season, Granada’s focus has shifted entirely toward single-seaters, with the F1 Academy representing her first full campaign in formula racing. With her impressive background, strong support system, and determination, she is poised to make a significant impact in the championship. The motorsport community eagerly anticipates her performance as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her racing career.
