Due to the previous round at Imola getting canceled due to heavy rainfall and flooding, the break between rounds was extended. But now, Formula 2 & 3 take on one of the most historic locations in racing, Monaco.
This 3.3-kilometer circuit is a challenge for even the best drivers. Formula 2 & 3 cars will navigate the narrow streets of Monte Carlo. While the streets make up an iconic racecourse, they’re also the place where many drivers live, meaning many are racing around in their own backyard. Three-time Formula 1 World Champion Nelson Piquet famously compared it to “riding a bicycle through the living room.” Not only is the Monaco Grand Prix a challenge of skill, but it is also a challenge of focus.
Formula 2
Theo Pourchaire arrives in Monaco as the Championship leader. The Frenchman took the lead from Ayumu Iwasa, who failed to score points in Baku. The Japanese driver also saw Frederick Vesti overtake him in the championship standings. Last time out in Baku, Oliver Bearman scored an impressive double win, but will that momentum carry over to Monaco? Can any of the title contenders make a statement of intent? Last year in Monaco, Dennis Hauger won the sprint race and Felipe Drugovich took home the feature race win. While Hauger is still in F2, can he find some momentum and do it again? The Norwegian driver is clearly talented but has continually ended up in trouble.
Formula 3
F3’s field of 30 drivers will try to tackle the streets of Monte Carlo. Gabriel Bortoleto is the championship leader, followed by Gregoire Saucy and Dino Beganovic. Based on the first two rounds, Bortoleto has profiled himself as the clear Championship favorite, winning the feature race on both occasions. However, matters can change quickly. One bad result could mix everything up. As it is the first time Formula 3 will race in the principality, it will also be crucial for teams to find the correct setup. Formula 2 teams have years of experience and data in Monaco. Plenty of work will have been done in the simulator, but does that translate to real life? Similarly, drivers will also be challenged to quickly find their sweet spot around this difficult track.
It’s difficult to tell who is the favorite this weekend. Based on those who have raced Formula Regional Europe in Monaco, Beganovic has been the most successful. For fans, it will be fun to see which drivers can impress.
Qualifying Format Changes
Because it’s tricky to have 26 and 30 cars find gaps for qualifying at Monaco, qualifying will be split up into two groups. Those who watch IndyCar will be familiar with a format like this. Formula 2 has used this split qualifying format in Monaco for a number of years now. Two groups based on even and odd-numbered cars, will have 16 minutes to qualify. The outright fastest driver of the two groups will get pole position, and all other drivers will be put on the row where they qualify.
Weekend Schedule (All Times EST)
Traditionally, Monaco Grand Prix practice is held on Thursday, so don’t forget to put that on your agenda in case you forget.
Thursday 25th of May
- Formula 3 Practice Session – 07:30 – 08:15 AM
- Formula 2 Practice Session – 09:00 – 09:45 AM
Friday 26th of May
- Formula 3 Qualifying Session (Group A) – 05:10 – 05:26 AM
- Formula 3 Qualifying Session (Group B) – 05:34 – 05:50 AM
- Formula 2 Qualifying Session (Group A) – 09:10 – 09:26 AM
- Formula 2 Qualifying Session (Group B) – 09:34 – 09:50 AM
Saturday 27th of May
- Formula 3 Sprint Race (23 Laps or 40 Mins +1 Lap) – 05:00 – 05:45 AM
- Formula 2 Sprint Race (30 Laps or 45 Mins +1 Lap) – 08:15 – 09:05 AM
Sunday 28th of May
- Formula 3 Feature Race (27 Laps or 45 Mins +1 Lap) – 02:00 – 02:50 AM
- Formula 2 Feature Race (42 Laps or 60 Mins +1 Lap) – 03:40 – 04:45 AM
All Support races are broadcast on F1TV, ESPN+ and Sky Sports F1)
