40 Facts About FIA Formula 2 Championship

What is the FIA Formula 2 Championship?

The FIA Formula 2 Championship is a premier single-seater racing series that acts as a stepping stone to Formula One. It’s where young drivers sharpen their skills and showcase their talent. Here are some fascinating facts about this thrilling championship.

1. The FIA Formula 2 Championship was introduced in 2017, rebranding the long-term Formula One feeder series GP2.
2. The series was founded by Flavio Briatore and is currently managed by Bruno Michel.
3. It serves as a training ground for drivers aiming to graduate to Formula One, making racing relatively affordable for teams.
4. The FIA Formula 2 Championship is part of the FIA Global Pathway, which includes karting, Formula 4, Formula Regional, FIA Formula 3, and finally, the FIA Formula One World Championship.

Technical Aspects of the Cars

The cars in the FIA Formula 2 Championship are designed to be as close to Formula One cars as possible. This helps drivers get accustomed to the high-performance machines they will eventually drive in F1.

5. The chassis of the FIA Formula 2 cars is developed by Italian manufacturer Dallara.
6. Initially, the cars used a 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 620 horsepower.
7. The series aims to use 100% synthetic sustainable fuels by 2027.
8. Pirelli is the sole tyre supplier, offering four dry compounds and one wet compound.
9. Brembo supplies monoblock brake calipers and disc bells exclusively for the series.
10. Carbone Industrie supplies carbon brake discs and pads, with brake discs measuring 278 mm × 28 mm.
11. The current Dallara F2 2018's fuel tank has a capacity of up to 125 litres.
12. The suspension system consists of upper and lower steel wishbones, pushrod-operated, with twin Koni dampers and torsion bars suspension (front) and spring suspension (rear).

Racing and Circuit Details

The championship features multiple rounds, each with a sprint race and a feature race. These races are held on some of the most iconic circuits around the world.

13. The numbering system is based on the previous season's team standings.
14. The number 13 has been used since the formation of GP2 Series in 2005.
15. The number 19 (and later the number 18) has been retired to honor Anthoine Hubert.
16. The series races mainly on European and Middle Eastern circuits but also appears at other international race tracks.
17. The championship consists of multiple rounds, each featuring a sprint race on Saturday and a feature race on Sunday.
18. All rounds of the season are in support of a Formula 1 Grand Prix.
19. The cars are designed to be significantly slower than Formula One cars but faster than most other circuit racing vehicles.
20. In 2024, the series introduced ground effect to enhance aerodynamic performance.

Sustainability and Safety

The FIA Formula 2 Championship is committed to sustainability and safety, aligning with broader motorsport industry goals.

21. The series is targeting 100% synthetic sustainable fuels by 2027.
22. Strict technical regulations ensure all cars are built to the same specifications.
23. Infringements such as track limit violations and technical non-conformities can lead to penalties.
24. The FIA issues summons and decisions based on technical delegates' reports.

Teams and Drivers

The championship features a diverse range of drivers and teams, each competing for the top spot.

25. Teams like ART Grand Prix, PREMA Racing, and Hitech Pulse-Eight are competing in the 2024 season.
26. Drivers such as Victor Martins, Oscar Piastri, and Amaury Cordeel are part of the 2024 lineup.
27. The championship standings are updated after each round, reflecting the performance of drivers and teams.

Fan Engagement and Media

The FIA Formula 2 Championship has a strong presence on social media and offers various ways for fans to engage with the series.

28. The series has its own official live timing services, providing real-time updates and live streaming of the races.
29. The official Twitter account (@Formula2) provides updates, news, and insights.
30. The F1FS Twitter account (@F1FeederSeries) also offers valuable information about the series.
31. The F1FS Discord server is a community-driven platform where fans can discuss the series.
32. Fans can access previous races through on-demand race replays.
33. The full championship standings are available on the official website.
34. For more information about broadcasting and television, fans can visit the respective website of the FIA Formula 2 Championship.

Special Races and Circuits

Certain races and circuits hold special significance in the FIA Formula 2 Championship.

35. The Spanish Grand Prix feature race is one of the highlights of the season.
36. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is a 4.657 km track with 14 turns.
37. The sprint race at Barcelona covers 26 laps, while the feature race covers 37 laps.

Resources for Fans

New fans can find plenty of resources to get acquainted with the series.

38. The FIA F2 Guide provides comprehensive information for new fans.
39. The F1FS Wiki offers additional resources, including a guide to the 2024 drivers and teams.
40. The session times for the FIA Formula 2 Championship are typically in CEST (UTC+2).

The Future of Racing

The FIA Formula 2 Championship stands as a critical stepping stone for aspiring Formula One drivers. Since its inception in 2017, it’s provided a platform for young talent to showcase their skills. With Dallara-designed chassis, Pirelli tyres, and a push towards sustainable fuels, the series mirrors the technical and competitive nature of Formula One. The introduction of ground effect in 2024 and the goal of using 100% synthetic fuels by 2027 highlight its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The championship’s structure, featuring sprint and feature races, offers drivers valuable experience in a high-pressure environment. With live timing, social media engagement, and on-demand race replays, fans can stay connected and informed. The FIA Formula 2 Championship not only prepares drivers for the pinnacle of motorsport but also ensures fans are part of the journey every step of the way.