Pre-race routines, racing idols, and favourite food. It is time to learn more about our 2026 F1 ACADEMY racer, Payton Westcott.
We sat down the 16-year-old so she could introduce herself to you all.
Where were you born?
“I was born in Laguna Beach in California.”
What is your first racing memory?
“I started go-karting when I was six years old and one of my first memories is of the very first track, I went to. I remember being told where the gas and the brake were, and what the steering did.
“They didn’t tell me what any flags meant – I was only six years old, so I didn’t know! They were waving trying to get me to come into the pits for like five laps, but I just kept going around and around.
“The guys working at the track had to come out and stand in the middle of the track and point me into the pits!”
Who is your racing idol or hero?
“Niki Lauda. I really like Niki. Everything I have read and learned about Niki shows me how analytical and dedicated he was.”
What are your goals for 2026?
“Enjoy the ride. It’s going to be a crazy year, so I want to have fun and learn as much as I can.”
What’s your favourite racetrack?
“Of the ones I have raced at so far, I would say Paul Ricard. It’s not everyone’s favourite but it is mine.
“There are fast section, slow sections, short and long straights. The racing there is always really fun.”
What’s one track you can’t wait to race on?
“I can’t wait for Zandvoort, I’m really excited for that one.”
What song do you listen to before a race?
“That’s top secret! I can’t share that, because then I would be exposed. It’s like my secret weapon.”