Storylines to keep an eye on as F1 ACADEMY returns in Montreal

F1 ACADEMY returns for Round 2 of the 2026 season at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, following an exciting opener in Shanghai. Emma Felbermayr enters the weekend as the championship leader after a stellar performance in China, where she secured a Feature Race win for Audi. She currently holds a six-point advantage over Alisha Palmowski, with Alpine's Nina Gademan sitting in third. The Montreal weekend introduces a special three-race format, aimed at bolstering the 2026 calendar. This includes an Opening Race based on second-fastest qualifying times, a Reverse Grid Race, and a Sunday Feature Race. With a maximum of 65 points available, drivers face a high-stakes challenge, especially with unpredictable weather forecasts adding complexity to the strategy at this iconic North American venue. Local talent Autumn Fisher will make her debut as a Wild Card entry, aiming to become the first Wild Card to secure a podium. Meanwhile, contenders like Alba Larsen and Ella Lloyd are looking to rebound from difficult results in Shanghai. Additionally, rookies Payton Westcott and Natalia Granada look to continue their momentum, while the entire field faces the unique challenge of racing on the demanding Montreal circuit with limited testing.