Mathilda Paatz has secured her first victory in the F1 Academy series after a last-lap penalty drastically altered the race standings. This accomplishment occurred during the Reverse Grid Race, showcasing the intense competition among the participants.
Paatz Takes the Win After Ferreira’s Penalty
Rafaela Ferreira initially led the race, having overtaken polesitter Kaylee Countryman right after the start. Ferreira effectively managed two Safety Car restarts, maintaining her position until the final lap. However, a five-second time penalty for a false start changed everything.
Race Results and Standings
- Winner: Mathilda Paatz (Aston Martin)
- Second Place: Kaylee Countryman
- Third Place: Payton Westcott
- Fourth Place: Natalia Granada (PREMA Racing)
- Fifth Place: Lisa Billard
- Sixth Place: Emma Felbermayr
- Seventh Place: Megan Bruce
- Eighth Place: Rafaela Ferreira
- Seventh place dropped: Ella Lloyd (to 13th due to a penalty)
Following the penalty, Ferreira dropped from first to tenth place. Meanwhile, Alba Larsen, who was competing for second, faced her own setback. A post-race penalty for causing a collision relegated her from second to eleventh, allowing Countryman to claim the runner-up spot.
Upcoming Races
Alisha Palmowski, who retired early due to a collision, will start on pole position for the Feature Race. The next race is scheduled to commence at 10:45 local time on Sunday, promising more thrilling action in the F1 Academy series.
For a more detailed overview of the F1 Academy Reverse Grid Race, visit El-Balad for comprehensive reports.
