With her racing suit on, Alba Larsen feels safe. It isn’t a superhero costume providing momentary power, but rather the garment that best defines her. This is how she sees herself when she closes her eyes and thinks about her identity: a professional racing driver. Seventeen-year-old Dane Alba Larsen is rapidly climbing the motorsport hierarchy. She intends to keep going for a long time—improving, growing, studying, and gaining experience—while the world around her takes on the vibrant colors of a dream taking shape, starting with her favorite: red. Specifically, the red of the team that chose her as a new member of its prestigious talent hub: the Ferrari Driver Academy.
What does it mean to become part of the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy?
“I am truly happy; I feel like I’m on cloud nine. It’s an enormous opportunity that makes me feel part of this special family. I want to give my all and make them proud of this choice.”
When did the call from Maranello arrive?
“It’s not easy to pinpoint a specific day; it happened bit by bit. My experience with Ferrari began in December 2023 when I won the FIA Girls on Track – Rising Star competition, an initiative created to support young female drivers at the start of their careers. Since then, Ferrari kept an eye on me, following my progress on track. Then, with my first season in F1 Academy, there was a significant step forward, and I signed the contract during the summer.”
Which aspects would you like to improve most during your time in Maranello?
“I think I have a lot to learn as a driver, from every perspective. The Ferrari program is perfect for what I need. This year I believe I’ve shown that I have talent, so I want to refine it—for example, in qualifying, to ensure I start at the front in every race and fight for wins next year in F1 Academy.”
2026 will be your second year in F1 Academy. What goals have you set for yourself?
“I think I had an excellent rookie season, proving my potential. Obviously, I want to stand on the podium and win races, and the thought of doing that in red next year gives me great motivation.”
What does wearing the red suit make you feel: pressure or pride?
“I will certainly face a lot of pressure; Ferrari is an iconic brand. So yes, I can’t deny the pressure is there, but I think I can handle it and I can’t wait to prove that.”
With your signing to the Academy came the move to Maranello. Do you like living in Italy?
“Yes, I love it. As a child, I often came here on holiday with my family, both in summer and winter. I like everything about this country, especially the food: pasta is my absolute favorite thing.”
What kind?
“All of them, I’d say. But if I have to choose: I adore a good carbonara.”
How is it going with the language?
“I’m learning bit by bit. I can’t wait to be able to speak Italian properly.”
For this shoot, you took off the racing suit and wore pieces from the Ferrari Style collection. How did you feel as a model?
“It was a surreal experience in the best sense of the term. I’m used to tracks, noise, helmets, and everything that happens in a paddock. So, spending an entire day between fashion and photo shoots, and being able to do it on the famous Fiorano track, was like bringing two different worlds together: fashion and racing.”
Did you feel at ease?
“I have to say yes. It was truly special to have a fashion-related experience on the track, in this place of speed and precision, while simultaneously dedicating myself to a more creative side like fashion. I love the energy on set and the attention to detail, which reminds me in part of the focus required for racing. Every time I step into the fashion world, I discover a new and different part of myself, not just as a driver but as a young woman trying to experiment and open up.”
Do you have a favorite look from the shoot?
“I loved them all. I was surprised by how these clothes are very fashionable but, at the same time, convey great strength. What pleased me most was feeling confident while wearing them. If I had to choose one, I’d say the red one, partly because it’s my favorite color. It’s very impactful and radiates power. I also really liked a jacket I wore with structured shoulders; it made me feel both very elegant and powerful.”
What emotions did this experience evoke?
“It reminded me that we girls can be strong in every field. On the track, where I’m used to being and seeing myself, and also outside of it, doing something totally new.”
Do fashion and motorsport share common traits?
“Yes, it goes back to the idea of feeling at ease: when you enter a paddock in a fashionable outfit, it can make you feel confident, and you can transfer that confidence into the car. Then there’s the matter of precision: to do a great job, something that leaves a mark, you have to be at your best. Whether that’s setting a lap time down to the tenth of a second or designing and creating a perfect jacket.”
How would you describe your style off the track?
“Usually, I’m quite minimalist and sporty. I’m used to traveling a lot, so I like to have something comfortable with me; I wear a lot of hoodies and similar items. Lately, however, I’ve enjoyed experimenting more with bolder shapes and colors, and occasionally I wear more fun things that allow me to play. A bit like on the track: I think my style, like my driving skills, can grow and change with me.”
Is there a piece of clothing or an accessory that you feel particularly represents you?
“My racing suit. Every time I put it on, I feel truly confident. It’s the garment that most makes me feel like who I am, as if it were a part of me.”
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