Rafaela Ferreira on the hunt for her first victory in F1 Academy

The 20-year-old Brazilian Rafaela Ferreira is starting her second season in the F1 Academy. The driver once again represents Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team (VCARB) in the all-female racing series, taking another step in her development within international single-seater racing. With a year of experience behind her, she is now focusing on further growth, consistency, and achieving strong results. In this interview, she talks about her goals for the new season and how she plans to approach her second year in the F1 Academy.

HOW EXCITED ARE YOU ABOUT YOUR SECOND SEASON IN THE F1 ACADEMY?
RF: "I'm very excited. It's going to be great to show everything I've learned during my debut season. My first year was all about learning and development. I focused on improving from session to session, and I think I achieved that. This season, the goal is to bring everything together on track and perform at my best."

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THIS SEASON?
RF: "My main goal this year is to achieve a win, that would be really special. Of course, I'd also like to achieve a few podium finishes along the way."

WHICH CIRCUIT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO?
RF:" Canada. I've raced there before and I'm really looking forward to going back. I love driving through the chicanes and getting close to the walls, I really enjoy that as a driver. I'm also looking forward to Austin. It's a race many people have high expectations for and I feel it will be an incredible circuit and a great race."

HOW WAS YOUR WINTER BREAK AND PREPARATION FOR 2026?
RF: "I tried to find a good balance between relaxing and staying focused on my preparation. It's summer in Brazil, so I spent some time on the beach with friends and family, which is always one of my favorite things to do. But the break doesn't last long, and before you know it, it's time to start intense training again. I feel well prepared for China and it's definitely a different feeling to return as a second-year driver."

HOW HAS THE RED BULL ACADEMY PROGRAM AND VISA CASH APP RACING BULLS SUPPORTED YOU?
RF: "They have both supported me incredibly well, not only in my development as a driver but also as a person. They have given me the tools to perform better both on and off the track. We have a dedicated performance coach, Sarah Harrington, who helps us with everything from nutrition to sleep, ensuring we are as well prepared as possible. I have also spent time in Milton Keynes using the simulator, a fantastic tool provided by the team. The entire VCARB family has supported me from day one. I will never forget how they came to celebrate my podium finish in Brazil, that was a truly special moment."