LEGO Partners with F1 Academy, to Release Car Set and Field 2026 Team

The LEGO Group and F1 Academy have announced a multi-year partnership, set to include the release of an F1 Academy car construction set and a sponsored car on the 2026 F1 Academy grid.

Why it matters:

• This groundbreaking collaboration aims to empower young women in motorsport by increasing visibility and representation, challenging traditional perceptions of who belongs in racing.
• It provides a clear pathway for aspiring female drivers and engineers, aligning with F1 Academy's mission to develop talent and foster inclusivity.

The Details:

• Partnership Announcement: F1 Academy Director Susie Wolff and LEGO Marketing Director Julia Goldin revealed the collaboration ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
• Team Entry: LEGO Racing will field a car on the 2026 F1 Academy grid, with 20-year-old Dutch racer Esmee Kosterman confirmed as the driver.
  • Kosterman, a former kart and F4 racer, made her F1 Academy debut as a wildcard entry at her home race in Zandvoort in August.
• Product Release: A 201-piece F1 Academy construction set, available for pre-order, is scheduled for release in March 2026.
• Inspiration and Representation: Both Wolff and Goldin emphasized the partnership's goal to inspire young girls.
  • Wolff stated, "This collaboration isn't just about the possibility of building an F1 Academy LEGO car, it's about building belief in what’s possible."
  • Goldin highlighted, "For the first time, fans can hold their favourite F1 Academy LEGO car in their hands, and I’m thrilled that we’re securing female representation in racing toys for young girls."

What's next:

This partnership marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to diversify motorsport and create new opportunities for women. The introduction of the LEGO car and sponsored team in 2026, alongside the upcoming construction set, is expected to generate considerable excitement and serve as a tangible symbol of progress within the sport.