Haas Appoints Kaylee Countryman as 2026 F1 Academy Driver

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Haas Appoints Kaylee Countryman as 2026 F1 Academy Driver

Haas F1 Team has officially announced that Kaylee Countryman will be their representative in the 2026 F1 Academy season. The 15-year-old from Chandler, Arizona, is set to race with ART Grand Prix, marking her as the tenth confirmed driver for the upcoming campaign.

Kaylee Countryman: A Rising Star

Kaylee Countryman began her racing career just three years ago. She initially competed in the LO206 J2 class, driving a four-stroke Briggs & Stratton-powered kart. During her first year, she achieved numerous podium finishes, including a notable second place at a national karting event in California. She also participated in the Grand Nationals held in Indiana.

Career Progression and Achievements

In 2023, Countryman made a significant transition from four-stroke karts to a two-stroke, joining the J3 Competition and securing a position as a factory driver for CompKart. In the same year, she showcased her talent in the USF Juniors series, where she was one of only three female drivers competing among a 22-driver field, securing four top-10 finishes.

Future in Formula Racing

Looking ahead, Kaylee will participate in both the F1 Academy and the USF2000 Championship next year. “I’m thrilled about this opportunity to represent Haas F1 Team and ART Grand Prix,” she stated. Countryman expressed eagerness to advance her career while working within a professional environment.

Team Support and Expectations

Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal of MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, expressed excitement about Countryman’s addition to the team. He emphasized the team’s commitment to providing her with resources and support to aid her development as a driver. “Her passion for this sport is contagious, and we believe she will achieve exciting things with us in the F1 Academy,” Komatsu remarked.

Conclusion

As Kaylee Countryman prepares for her debut in the 2026 F1 Academy, she embodies the fresh talent emerging in motorsport. With a promising background and strong support from Haas, her journey in Formula racing is one to watch.