Formula 2, the esteemed feeder series for Formula 1, has unveiled its captivating new car design that will grace the tracks in the 2024 season. Revealed at the Monza circuit ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, the revamped car marks a significant step forward for the category that has nurtured talents like Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, Charles Leclerc, and Oscar Piastri, propelling them onto the Formula 1 stage.
Previously known as GP2 until 2017, Formula 2 holds a prominent position in the motorsport hierarchy, providing a stepping stone for emerging drivers aspiring to enter the pinnacle of motorsport. Over the years, the series has seen its graduates ascend to the highest echelons of racing, adding an extra layer of excitement to the unveiling of the new car.
The latest Formula 2 car, set to compete in the 2024, 2025, and 2026 campaigns, mirrors the direction taken by Formula 1 in 2022 with its modernized aesthetic. In alignment with Formula 1’s initiative to enhance overtaking opportunities through simplified aerodynamics, Formula 2 aims to follow suit, providing young talents with a similar experience as they progress in their careers.
Powered by a 3.4-liter turbocharged Mecachrome engine, the new Formula 2 car incorporates cutting-edge safety innovations mandated by the FIA. Furthermore, it has been engineered to accommodate the impending transition to sustainable fuels, a crucial aspect in the global effort to reduce environmental impact.
One notable enhancement is the introduction of F1-style power steering, designed to make the car more accessible to a diverse range of drivers. This change is particularly significant as it aims to remove potential barriers, including the absence of power steering on prior iterations that may have hindered female competitors.
Bruno Michel, the Chief Executive of Formula 2, expressed pride in the new car’s design, emphasizing its role in preparing young talents for the challenges of Formula 1. Michel stated, “We’ve designed a powerful, challenging and safe car that will prepare young drivers for F1, and that will continue to provide great racing and a lot of overtaking opportunities.”
The evolution of Formula 2’s car design is closely aligned with sustainability efforts while keeping costs in check. Michel noted the collaborative role of partners Aramco, Pirelli, Dallara, and Mecachrome in ensuring the car’s safety, reliability, and its effectiveness as a training platform for aspiring Formula 1 drivers.
Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, applauded Formula 2’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Highlighting the importance of collaboration and the parallel development of Formula 2 and Formula 1 cars, Domenicali stated, “The new F2 car is also an important symbol for our sustainability journey as the series continues to pioneer advanced sustainable fuel which will become a part of F1 from 2026.”
As the Formula 2 landscape evolves with its sleek new car, anticipation is building for the 2024 season, where young talents will hone their skills and strive to make their mark on the road to Formula 1.
