Formula 2 heads to Hungary for its final round before the summer break. The technical circuit demands strategic precision to come out on top.
Formula 2’s Next Stop: Mogyoród, Hungary
The next round of Formula 2 will take place in Hungary before the summer break. Leonardo Fornaroli leads the Drivers’ Championship, three points ahead of Richard Veschoor. The Italian not only claimed victory in the Sprint Race in Belgium, but also benefited from Alex Dunne’s penalty, which allowed him to take the lead in the standings.
However, nothing is guaranteed. In such a competitive championship, where margins are minimal, everything can change in just one race.
Who Could Be the Next Winner at the Hungaroring?
Hungary‘s circuit is notorious for limited overtaking opportunities and is widely regarded by drivers as highly technical. Last year, Paul Aron secured his second pole position of the season, ahead of Enzo Fittipaldi and his title rival Isack Hadjar.
In the Sprint Race, Richard Verschoor had crossed the finish line in first position, but an irregularity in his car plank cost him the victory. Kush Maini capitalised on the situation and inherited the winner’s trophy.
The outcome of the Feature Race was shaped by two safety cars, which helped Andrea Kimi Antonelli claim his second Formula 2 win. The Italian used the first neutralisation to pit for fresh tyres and rejoined at the front of the field.
Later in the race, Amaury Cordeel hit the barriers, prompting another safety car. Antonelli took the opportunity to change tyres again and launched a successful attack on rivals whose tyres were more worn. He maximised his pace advantage and went on to win the race.
This year, it is worth keeping an eye on Victor Martins and Richard Verschoor, both of whom delivered strong performances throughout the 2024 weekend. Rookies such as Alex Dunne and Luke Browning should not be overlooked either. Dunne is eager to bounce back from his Spa penalty, while Browning is currently enjoying an impressive run of form.
READ MORE: F1: History of the Hungarian Grand Prix
Could Fornaroli Expand His Three-Point Advantage?
Leonardo Fornaroli rose to the top of the standings following a chaotic weekend at Spa, both on and off the track. Post-race penalties altered the final result of the Feature Race and, consequently, the standings after round nine.
As it stands, Fornaroli leads with 125 points, closely followed by Richard Verschoor on 122. Although the Dutchman failed to score in Belgium, he managed to retain second place by the slimmest of margins.
Fornaroli aims to head into the summer break as the championship leader. To achieve that, he must consistently finish ahead of his closest rivals. He understands that while consistency is essential, victories are crucial if he wants to claim the title.
Currently in fourth is Alex Dunne, who will be determined to return to the top of the table this weekend. The Irishman is keen to fend off the challenge from Luke Browning in fifth, who has been collecting good results in recent race weekends.
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Is Tyre Management the Key to Victory in Hungary?
At the Hungaroring, cars require a high-downforce setup, given the abundance of medium and low-speed corners. For this reason, tyre degradation will be a crucial factor, especially depending on the temperatures reached on the track.
Last year, Pirelli chose Hard and Soft compounds, though the choice appeared to disadvantage teams and drivers alike. Consequently, they have returned to Medium and Soft compounds for this weekend.
In the Sprint Race, the hardest compound will likely be the go-to option, as there are no pit stops. For Sunday’s race, however, strategies could differ. Some may look to gain an early advantage, while others will prefer to strike later in the race.
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Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / PsnewZ
Recording Date: 27.07.2025
