RACING driver Jessica Edgar, who races in the F1 Academy series, has clinched a major sponsorship deal with American Express for the remainder of the season.

West Cumbrian driver Jessica will be now representing American Express in the #17 car, operated by Rodin Motorsport, and sporting a custom American Express race suit.

She said: "I am super excited and proud to be representing American Express, it is amazing for such a big brand to be sponsoring me!"

The new partnership will come into force during this weekend's (May 3-5) race in Miami, the company's home race.

Jessica said: "I think racing in their home country in Miami for our first race together is very exciting. They are all coming to watch me so I will do my best to make them proud."

Whitehaven News: Jessica's first race with American Express will be in their home countryJessica's first race with American Express will be in their home country (Image: F1 Academy)

After originally starting the season under F1 Academy sponsorship, Jessica has now secured her own official partnership, joining other drivers who are sponsored by the likes of Tommy Hilfiger, Charlotte Tilbury, Pirelli and F1 teams.

Jessica explained: "Having a sponsor in motorsport is a huge help. It is such an expensive sport that without these sponsors not just me but a lot of people wouldn’t be going racing. I am really thankful for the opportunity."

To support small businesses, at each remaining round of the 2024 F1 Academy season, American Express will run a custom livery featuring American Express and 'Shop Small' branding, as well as the logo of a local small business.

Shop Small is a movement created by American Express to support local small businesses.

The new livery will be used on Jessica's car for the rest of the season. She said: "My livery looks amazing, I am really excited to see it in real life, I think it is going to stand out on track too."

Whitehaven News: The new American Express liveryThe new American Express livery (Image: F1 Academy)

Susie Wolff MBE, F1 Academy managing director, said: “American Express is a worldwide leader in the payments space and a powerful advocate for small businesses and entrepreneurs globally, and we’re proud to welcome them to F1 Academy as an official partner.

"We’re thankful to American Express for embracing our vision and for showing their commitment to elevating women in sport and inspiring the next generation of female drivers.”

Whitehaven News: Jess will also race with the new AMEX themed race suit Jess will also race with the new AMEX themed race suit (Image: F1 Academy)

The first round of the F1 season kicked off in Jeddah. Jessica spoke about how the weekend went, as well as her outlook for the rest of the season.

She said: "Our first round at Jeddah was overall a tough weekend. I think qualifying let us down, only managing to be p10 and p9. Unfortunately in race one I got a puncture racing back though the field. Race two I was happier with... I finished p4.

"I would like to just do as well as I can this season. Of course we are always looking to win, but being consistent is more important."