AUSTRALIA’S fastest female teenager has accelerated to the pointy end of the intensely competitive international motor racing scene after becoming the youngest and latest driver to be announced for this year’s Formula 1 Academy.

The elevation of Joanne Ciconte (16) – from starting karting at age 9 to Formula 4 in 2023 – also represents Australia’s first-ever participation in the prestigious series, which is an F1 initiative led by Susie Wolff.

Her move to F4 also came with her earning a place as a finalist in the 2023 Ferrari Driver Academy Shootout at the Fiorano test circuit in Italy and being scouted by renowned Italian racing champions Giancarlo Fisichella and Marco Cioci whose mentorship and strategic guidance set her a path for a position in the Formula 1 Academy.

Joanne Ciconte

Under the management and mentorship of Italian race academy Pro Racing, Ms Ciconte dedicated her 2024/25 season to competing in some of the world’s most competitive FIA F4 Championships, including the Italian and Spanish Formula 4 Series – both known for producing the next generation of Formula 1 drivers.

Ms Ciconte said the move into the F1 Academy was “something that I’ve been working towards for a long time and to now actually be here makes me more inspired than ever”.“The F1 Academy has laid the foundations for women all over the world and given us the opportunity to represent our country while showcasing our skills as racing drivers.

“This would have been very difficult a few years back, a testimony to the impact of this incredible opportunity.

“To be the youngest participant in the 2025 line-up makes me even more proud as I fly the Australian flag. I’m grateful to be part of this amazing opportunity and for the mentorship from the Pro Racing Management Team, led by Marco Cioci and Giancarlo Fisichella.”Partnerships manager for Joanne Ciconte, Noni Gilardoni, told GoAutoNews Premium that her team has re-signed with Kaboodle and Cotton On Group.

Also strongly supporting Ms Ciconte’s journey are the VACC and Women in Automotive.