After the summer break, the long-awaited race week is back! Taking place at Zandvoort, Netherlands, Practice 1 of F1 Academy kicks off under unpredictable coastal skies. Known for its tight corners and flowing layout, the circuit presents a unique challenge. A challenge that is even trickier with their sandy surface, which means lower grip levels across the board.

With five different winners already this season, every lap counts as the championship battle tightens. The opening session saw the field trying to get to grips quite literally with the track.

Drivers Test The Conditions At Zandvoort

A mix of familiar faces and a new addition hit the track, with Emma Felbermayr, Chloe Chong, and Wild Card Esmee Kosterman clocking in sessions on the board early on. Kosterman races usually in British F4. This weekend marks her F1 Academy debut as the fifth Wild Card entry of the season. She wastes no time settling in.

Chloe Chambers‘ early pace demonstrates confidence on a surface that caught out several drivers. Felbermayr also shows flashes of speed. Her brief run at the top of the timesheets reflecting her adaptability to Zandvoort’s rhythm.

Red Flag Ends The Session

The session is brought to an early end after Joanne Ciconte runs wide at Turn 8, bringing out the red flag with just minutes to go. Fortunately, Ciconte emerges unharmed.

With the red flag, Alisha Palmowski emerges as the fastest driver in Practice 1, setting the benchmark with a stunning lap time that puts her at the top of the timesheets.

Despite the unpredictable grip levels and the ever-present wind dragging sand onto the racing line, the session ran largely without drama, a testament to the drivers’ growing familiarity with the cars and one another. As the weekend progresses, Zandvoort is set to keep everyone on their toes.