Filipino driver Bianca Bustamante joins F1 Academy

MANILA: Bianca Bustamante, a Filipino driver, has been named the first driver in PREMA Racing's three-car lineup for the first F1 Academy season this year.

Bustamante made her single-seater debut in the W Series last year, finishing ninth in Miami to earn points in her opening race. The 18-year-old went on to finish the season in 15th place among drivers, earning best rookie honors.

“I'm very excited to be joining PREMA for the 2023 season. As a rookie in formula cars, 2022 was a year full of challenges, but today is definitely a big step up in my career,” Bustamante expressed. “PREMA is one of the most prestigious racing organizations in the world, and I'm incredibly grateful to join their family of drivers.

“With PREMA, I'm joining a top driver development programme both on and off the race track, and most importantly, I will have a rigorous race and test programme, giving me the much-needed seat time to perform at my best in competition.”

She added: “Thank you PREMA for bringing me into the programme, and Formula 1 for launching this series to support young female drivers. Most importantly, thanks to Laurence Escalante for believing in me and supporting my journey, getting me one step closer to my F1 dreams.”

Prior to making her debut in the all-female series, Bustamante is presently participating in the Formula 4 UAE Championship with PREMA. She earned her first season points during the third round in Kuwait.

PREMA Racing Team Principal Rene Rosin added: “We are happy to announce Bianca for our new F1 Academy programme. We enjoy working together in the F4 UAE Championship and we feel there is great potential we can build on for the future.

“I think she will be an outstanding fit right from the start, especially considering what she was able to achieve in her first experiences, and we are determined to provide her with our best support.”

Photos from Formula 1, W Series

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