Nicole Havrda steps up to F1 ACADEMY with American Express

Nicole Havrda will be racing in American Express colours in 2025, as the F1 ACADEMY Official Partner announced her as their chosen driver for the upcoming F1 ACADEMY season.

The 19-year-old Canadian began karting on home soil in 2019, achieving first place in the Calgary Shootout alongside success in the Rotax Max Finals.

Graduating to open-wheel racing in 2022, she achieved two top-five finishes in the Indian Racing League Championship. The following year saw her make history, becoming the first female Formula Pro USA Champion as well as taking home the title in both SFR FA2 and the Formula Pro USA Winter Series.

In 2024, Havrda competed in the Formula Regional Americas Championship, finishing sixth overall in her rookie campaign with four podiums to her name. In addition, she participated in two endurance races in an Audi R8 GT4.

She’ll now be taking on her rookie campaign in F1 ACADEMY in the #2 American Express car operated by Hitech Grand Prix.

“I’m honored to partner with American Express for my F1 ACADEMY debut this upcoming season, especially at the F1 Montreal Grand Prix in June," said Havrda. "Their support fuels my drive to compete at the highest level and I’m thrilled to represent a brand that champions performance, resilience, and ambition, both on and off the track.”

As part of their commitment to supporting and celebrating local businesses, American Express will be continuing their successful Shop Small initiative across the seven-round 2025 season — with their revamped custom livery featuring American Express and Shop Small branding alongside the logo of a local small business.