The LEGO Group has announced a multi-year partnership with F1 ACADEMY, introducing a new LEGO Racing car that will compete in the 2026 season. The announcement was made during the Las Vegas Grand Prix week, where the car will be piloted by Dutch driver Esmee Kosterman. This collaboration is significant as it marks one of the most notable brand partnerships to enter the all-female racing series since its inception in 2023.
New LEGO Racing Car and Speed Champions Set
Unveiled in the pit lane of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, the partnership will also see the release of the first official F1 ACADEMY LEGO Speed Champions set, which is currently available for pre-order. The 2026 season will be a milestone for Kosterman, as it will be her first full season in the championship. At just 20 years old, she made her F1 ACADEMY debut last year as a Wild Card at her home race in Zandvoort, showcasing strong performance in various junior categories, including a historic victory in the Ford Fiesta Sprint Cup.
The new car features a unique LEGO Racing livery, crafted by the in-house team at LEGO Group. This design merges typical motorsport elements with the brand’s playful colors and iconic shapes. The car and driver suit are adorned with a stylized checkered motif, representing a fusion of high-speed performance and creative expression.
Growing Female Representation in Motorsport
This partnership aligns with F1’s expanding audience, particularly among women. Research from The LEGO Group indicates that women now make up 42% of the global fanbase for Formula 1. Furthermore, a striking 87% of young girls surveyed expressed a desire for more opportunities for women in motorsport, with over half envisioning themselves as potential drivers.
The collaboration aims to enhance visibility, representation, and access within the motorsport culture, supporting the growing interest among young female fans. The first product from this partnership, the LEGO Speed Champions F1 ACADEMY LEGO Race Car, includes 201 pieces, showcasing aerodynamic detailing, Kosterman’s #32 race number, and a matching minifigure in the LEGO Racing colorway.
At the inaugural F1 ACADEMY event during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, LEGO will also present podium finishers with custom LEGO Botanicals Bouquets, each featuring over 2,000 elements in its design. This initiative further emphasizes the brand’s commitment to celebrating achievements in the sport.
For those interested in the upcoming set, pre-orders are available on LEGO’s official website, where further details about the partnership can also be found. As excitement builds around the Las Vegas Grand Prix, fans and collectors alike are eager to see how this innovative collaboration unfolds in the coming years.
