F1 Academy has officially unveiled a landmark multi-year partnership with Gatorade, naming the world’s leading sports drink brand as an official partner of the series until 2030.
Another historic partnership for F1 Academy
The partnership between the series and Gatorade is focused on the brand’s ‘Fuel Tomorrow’ platform. A global initiative that is breaking down barriers and providing 2.5 million teens with access to sports by 2030. This alliance allows F1 Academy drivers exclusive access to the Gatorade Sports Science Institute’s resources. This includes personalised hydration strategies, performance testing, and cutting-edge research to optimise athletic performance.
Starting in 2026, Gatorade will introduce hydration solutions specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of young F1 Academy drivers. Ultimately, supporting their performance and recovery at every stage of competition. Gatorade will also conduct extensive research to understand the unique hydration requirements of female athletes in motorsport. Aiming to set a new standard for athlete support and paving the way for future generations of female drivers to thrive in motorsport.
To celebrate this historic partnership, Gatorade will be sponsoring the Wild Card entry for the Canadian Grand Prix. Mathilda Paatz will join the F1 Academy grid this weekend, making her series debut.
A partnership for all Females in sport
Susie Wolff, Managing Director of F1 ACADEMY, praised the depth of the collaboration, believing this will open a range of doors for female athletes.
“What has impressed me most about Gatorade is how seriously they’re investing in our drivers, not just as athletes, but as individuals with incredible potential. This isn’t a surface-level sponsorship. It’s a deeply hands-on partnership that brings world-class hydration science and performance expertise directly to our paddock. With Gatorade’s support, our drivers will gain knowledge and tools that will serve them throughout their careers.”
Umi Patel, PepsiCo’s Vice President of Marketing Innovation and Hydration Brands, emphasised the importance of supporting female athletes early in their careers.
“Partnering with F1 ACADEMY is a powerful moment for Gatorade. Motorsport is one of the most physically demanding sports on the planet, where optimum hydration can be the difference between winning and losing. By supporting young women at the start of their motorsport journey, we’re not just setting them up for success. We are fueling their drive and ambition for the future. That’s the essence of our Fuel Tomorrow initiative.”
Jane Wakely, PepsiCo’s Chief Consumer and Marketing Officer, ecohed Patel’s statement.
“At PepsiCo, we believe in the power of platforms and partnerships to shape the future of sport. This partnership with F1 ACADEMY and our broader global collaboration with Formula 1 is a bold step forward in our mission to fuel fandom, create culture-driving moments, and deliver incredible brand experiences worldwide.”
