Australian driver Joanne Ciconte pivots from F1 Academy to Japan's Kyojo Cup for development

Australian racing driver Joanne Ciconte is shifting her career path from the F1 Academy to compete in Japan's all-female Kyojo Cup, prioritizing seat time and long-term development over the global exposure of the Formula 1 support series. The 17-year-old Victorian, who raced in F1 Academy in 2025, will drive for the Hong Kong-based KCMG team in the five-round championship held exclusively at Fuji Speedway, with an eye on eventually graduating to Japan's elite Super Formula series.

Why it matters:

Ciconte's move highlights a strategic calculation for young drivers balancing publicity with pure racing mileage. While F1 Academy offers unparalleled visibility within the F1 paddock, Ciconte's choice underscores that for some, consistent track time in a competitive environment is a more valuable currency for skill development. Her path could become a blueprint for other talents seeking to build experience before aiming for the highest echelons of single-seater racing.

The details:

• Series Switch: After becoming one of Australia's first two drivers in F1 Academy last year alongside Aiva Anagnostiadis, Ciconte has opted for the Kyojo Cup, which features sprint and feature races at each round.
• Reason for the Change: Ciconte stated the decision was driven by the need for more laps to build confidence and experience, which she found challenging within the F1 Academy schedule and budget constraints.
• Initial Impressions: During pre-season testing at the iconic Fuji Speedway—a former F1 venue—Ciconte impressed by finishing in the top five and described the circuit as "unbelievable" and "fun."
• Dual Campaign: In addition to her Japanese season, Ciconte will also contest two rounds of the Australian AU4 championship at Winton Raceway and The Bend with Tim Macrow Racing.
• Fellow Aussie on the Grid: She will be joined on the Kyojo Cup grid by 21-year-old fellow Australian Paige Raddatz, who will race for Fujisan Shizuoka Racing.

What's next:

Ciconte has explicitly stated that the Japanese campaign is intended as a stepping stone toward Super Formula, which is widely considered the second-fastest open-wheel category in the world after Formula 1.

• She expressed hope of securing a Super Formula seat "in the next couple of years," indicating a clear long-term performance goal beyond the immediate season.
• Her performance in the Kyojo Cup, racing identical machinery against other rising female talents, will be a critical indicator of her readiness for that next major step. Success could pave a new and viable route for international drivers aiming to break into Japan's top racing series.