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Aston Martin has officially unveiled Mathilda Paatz's 2026 F1 ACADEMY livery, marking a significant milestone for the emerging German talent as she embarks on her full-season campaign in the all-female series. The reveal represents more than just aesthetics; it symbolizes Paatz's integration into one of motorsport's most prestigious driver development ecosystems and her progression toward the pinnacle of single-seater racing.
The livery itself is a statement of intent. Featuring Aston Martin's iconic racing green, the Formula 4-spec car operated by PREMA Racing deliberately mirrors the aesthetic of the team's latest Formula 1 machinery, the AMR26. This visual continuity is far from incidental—it underscores Aston Martin Aramco's commitment to creating a cohesive pathway from junior categories through to grand prix racing, offering aspiring drivers a tangible connection to the sport's elite level.
Paatz's selection as Aston Martin's 2026 F1 ACADEMY representative came following a rigorous evaluation process that included a competitive shootout at the demanding Mugello circuit. Racing against three other candidates in Formula 4 machinery, Paatz didn't merely secure her place on the grid—she emerged as the standout performer. According to Aston Martin Racing Director Nuno Pinto, she demonstrated not only raw pace but also the consistency, maturity, and competitive spirit essential for success at this level.
Her credentials are impressive. The first female driver supported by the ADAC Motorsport Junior programme, Paatz claimed four wins in the 2025 E4 Championship – Trophy Woman category and accumulated multiple podiums in the renowned Italian F4 Championship. Her credentials extend beyond single-seaters: she secured a standout victory in the 2022 ADAC Kart Masters Ladies Cup, finishing third overall in the standings.
The management of Mathilda Paatz, Pro Racing Motorsport, expressed great satisfaction following the signing with Aston Martin.
Marco Cioci, CEO Pro Racing Motorsport: “We can’t wait for the season to begin. We will do everything possible to ensure Mathilda fights at the front. Even in her first year, our target is to be immediately in the leading group and, in the second half of the season, among the contenders for the title. It’s a demanding challenge, but Mathilda has already shown speed, sensitivity and great determination. We are very pleased and we start with the clear intention of being protagonists, not just participants.”
Giancarlo Fisichella, CEO Pro Racing Motorsport: “This is not just a major step, it is a major opportunity. Mathilda’s qualities push us to approach 2026 with a mindset that goes beyond a simple learning year. With the talent she has shown, we must think in terms of high-level results. We will stand by her throughout this journey, convinced that she can achieve something truly important.”
The transition to F1 ACADEMY machinery proved challenging during the pre-season test at Shanghai International Circuit between February 11-13. Paatz candidly acknowledged the learning curve, admitting there were "challenging moments" across the three-day session. However, her progression was evident—by day three, comfort and confidence had noticeably increased.
"Seeing the Aston Martin Aramco livery on the car for the first time was really special – it looks incredible and instantly made me feel part of the team," Paatz reflected, emphasizing how the visual branding solidified her sense of belonging within the academy structure.
Racing as the #8 entry with PREMA Racing, she carries both team expectations and her own ambitions into the 2026 season.
While Paatz maintains measured expectations, her underlying confidence is evident. Her goal is pragmatic yet purposeful: deliver clean race weekends and extract maximum value from the F1 ACADEMY platform. As Jessica Hawkins, Driver Ambassador and Head of F1 ACADEMY at Aston Martin Aramco, emphasized, F1 ACADEMY continues to serve as a brilliant platform for developing emerging talent while inspiring the next generation of female racers.
With the championship beginning in China next month, Paatz is positioned to make a significant impact on a series that increasingly shapes the future landscape of elite motorsport.
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.