Formula 2 kicks off for the 2025 Australian Grand Prix. A rookie-filled grid sets its sights on being the most competitive seasons of the F2.
For the first time in its history, Formula 2 will be fully powered by Aramco fuel to prepare for Formula 1’s move to it in 2026. Marking a significant milestone for the competition’s move to net zero by 2030.
Within the first few minutes, the Virtual Safety Car was brought out for the teams. However, the track is swiftly made green again.
Overnight Penalties
Three teams have been penalised following pre-season testing. Dams Lucas Oil, Rodin Motorsport and Trident Motorsport. Cars were found to have an air pressure sensor installed via the drilling of holes in the diffuser. This was seen as a competitive advantage.
All six drivers from the three teams will be facing a 10-pace grid penalty. The teams will all be facing a 10,000 euro fine for violating the rules. As well, teams will be demoted down to two days of running during Bahrain in-season testing. Instead of the regular three days.
The following drivers will be impacted for the upcoming weekend, facing a lethal 10-place grid drop for both races in Melbourne.
- Jak Crawford
- Kush Maini
- Alex Dunne
- Amuary Cordeel
- Sami Megatounif
- Max Esterson
First flying laps
Jak Crawford has been the hottest topic this season. With him being in line for a potential Cadillac seat for 2026, a good Formula 2 campaign will do him no ends of good.
Within the first 10 minutes, the red flag is brought out. Rookie Alex Dunne ended up in the gravel at turn one and sustained damage to his front and rear suspensions.
The current top three are Verschoor with a 1:33.530. Jak Crawford was not far behind, setting a 1.33.714. Following them, last year’s race winner, Stanek was even closer to Crawford with a 1.33.793.
Resumed Racing
The cars get back on track with twenty-four minutes remaining in the session. The loss of time in the session is not ideal for many of the rookies. However, they will need to make the most of what remains in this session.
Ollie Goethe has a moment in the gravel during turns nine and ten. Ultimately kicking up gravel across the track, impeding some of the drivers behind him. The Red Flag has once again been brought out to clear the track and recover Goethe’s car.
With only seventeen minutes left in the session, it is unlikely that many drivers will get more than a few laps in. Setting up for an exciting qualifying session in Australia.
The session resumed with six minutes remaining. These six minutes are crucial for drivers, particularly the rookies, to familiarise themselves with the track.
Final Run
The track is once again green, with drivers trying to make the best of the limited running.
Victor Martins sets the fastest time following the interruptions, with a 1.32.687 topping the timing sheets. With two minutes remaining, Martins improves on his time by 0.10s.
The third red flag of the session was brought out with two minutes remaining in the only practice session. Lindblad and Cordeel both had moments, ending up in the gravel.
The session will not be resumed. The top three remain Victor Martins, Kush Maini and Joshua Durksen.
With Qualifying for the F2 2025 Australian Grand Prix in a few hours, teams and drivers have their work cut out for them. Understanding the tricky conditions of Melbourne to see who comes out on top.
[adrotate banner=”3″]
Get 10% off all official F1 Merch at TheRaceWorks.com using code ‘EF1‘ at checkout.
Feature Image Credit Formula 2 Via X