Written by Ramiza Donlic, Edited by Vyas Ponnuri
Women have played an influential role throughout the history of motor racing. Many have taken to the wheels of motorsport machines, while numerous figures have worked tirelessly on the sidelines in various roles, shaping the racing world to the present day.
This week, we highlight the tale of Nicole Havrda, a 19-year-old Canadian race car driver from Comox Valley, British Columbia, a name making significant strides in motorsport today.
Havrda´s journey into racing began unexpectedly during a family trip to Europe in 2018. Back then, Havrda was deeply involved in competitive swimming and aspired to become an Olympian. However, a visit to the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring ignited a new passion within then 12-year-old Havrda.
Following this revelation, the Canadian immersed herself in the world of motorsports. She began karting in 2019, quickly showcasing her talent by securing first place in the Calgary Shootout. This early success was followed by her being crowned Vice Champion in the Junior Rotax Challenge Grand Finals in 2021.
In 2022, she transitioned to open-wheel racing, achieving two top-five finishes in the Indian Racing League Championship. Her momentum continued into 2023, a landmark year that saw her create history.
Havrda became the first female Formula Pro USA Champion. Additionally, she clinched titles in both the Formula Pro USA Winter Series and SFR FA2 championships, respectively.
Havrda´s upward trajectory persisted in 2024 as she competed in the Formula Regional Americas Championship. She finished sixth overall in her rookie season, earning four podiums along the way. Havrda’s versatility appeared further evident when she participated in two endurance races, driving an Audi R8 GT4.
The year 2025 marks a significant milestone in Havrda´s career, as she joins the F1 Academy, representing American Express in the #2 car operated by Hitech Grand Prix. Expressing her enthusiasm about this new chapter, she stated:
"I’m honoured to partner with American Express for my F1 ACADEMY debut this upcoming season, especially at the F1 Montreal Grand Prix in June. Their support fuels my drive to compete at the highest level, and I’m thrilled to represent a brand that champions performance, resilience, and ambition, both on and off the track."
Beyond her racing endeavors, Havrda is committed to inspiring the next generation of female drivers. She actively engages in initiatives to increase diversity within motorsports, serving as a role model for aspiring young women in the field.
Havrda’s dedication to promoting inclusivity underscores her belief that talent and determination transcend gender barriers in the pursuit of excellence on the racetrack.
Nicole Havrda is paving the way for many women in motorsports at a young age, embodying the representation that F1 Academy champions. Nicole Havrda is not just here to race but to win, marking her out as a driver to watch closely in the 2025 F1 Academy season.
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