The 2026 F1 Academy kicks off this weekend at the Chinese Grand Prix with a new partnership that signals the growing momentum behind women’s motorsport. Sephora has been named Official Partner and Official Beauty Retail Partner of the championship, bringing its presence both on and off the track throughout the season.
The collaboration connects two industries built around confidence and individuality. Sephora’s branding will appear across the series’ international calendar, which spans 14 races at seven venues from Shanghai to Las Vegas.
According to the brand’s global chief marketing officer, Deborah Yeh, the partnership is also about supporting female drivers and engaging fans worldwide.
Trackside, the brand plans to bring elements of its retail experience to race weekends. Selected events will feature interactive beauty stations, while guests at the F1 Paddock Club will have access to Sephora Glam Bars offering quick touch-ups during the race weekend.
The partnership will also be visible on the grid through Spanish rookie Natalia Granada, who joins the 2026 line-up after an impressive rookie test last year. The 18-year-old will compete in a “Sephora operated by Prema Racing” entry, with the car featuring the brand’s signature black-and-white stripes alongside red accents.
Beyond race weekends, Sephora will also support a new end-of-season celebration recognising standout performances and milestones from across the championship. As the lights go out in Shanghai, the new F1 Academy season begins with fresh energy—and a partnership that reflects the growing visibility of women in motorsport.
