In a dramatic twist, the F1 Academy championship has reopened its title battle, effectively undoing Abbi Pulling's historic crowning last weekend in Qatar.
The decision to reschedule last weekend's canceled second race at Losail has added a third round of racing to this weekend's schedule in Abu Dhabi, introducing a slim but mathematical possibility for Doriane Pin to snatch the title.
Pulling, an Alpine junior, had apparently secured his place in the record books during the opening race at the Losail International Circuit.
A second-place finish behind title rival Pin had propelled her to an unassailable 83-point lead, with only 82 points available in the remaining two races of the season.
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However, the second race in Qatar was canceled due to significant barrier damage caused following a crash in the preceding Porsche Carrera Cup race. Despite efforts to reschedule the heat during the weekend, logistical challenges left F1 Academy with only one completed race.
The all-female series has therefore announced a rescheduled third race in Abu Dhabi to compensate for the Qatar cancellation.
While the decision reflects the series' commitment to ensuring every competitor receives maximum track time, it has also reopened the title fight, thanks to a recalculation of the points on offer.
F1 Academy challenger and Mercedes protégé Doriane Pin on the grid in Qatar.
In addition to the reinstated race, two points will now be awarded for pole position in all three Abu Dhabi races.
This brings the total number of available points to 84—just enough for Pin to theoretically overturn Pulling's lead if the Rodin Motorsport driver fails to score a single point across the weekend – a scenario inconsistent with his podium streak in every race this season.
When all is said and done on Sunday at Yas Marina, the 2024 champion will earn herself a fully funded seat in the GB3 series with Rodin Motorsport, an incentive that highlights the stakes this weekend.
All eyes will be on the two contenders as F1 Academy's inaugural season reaches its unexpected and thrilling climax.
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