GP2 becomes Formula 2

By acquiring F1, Liberty Media not only got hold of the world’s most high-profile motorsport but also its two promotional series, GP2 and GP3.

In order to enhance the visibility of the drivers’ progression, an agreement has been reached with the FIA for the discipline to be renamed F2 and become an FIA-sanctioned championship, as explained by Jean Todt, the president of the Federation: « Being able to finalize this process with the Formula One Group and create Formula 2 is a significant step. The championship will provide a fantastic opportunity for young drivers who are striving to reach their ultimate goal of F1. »

The sought-after logic is that drivers progress from karting to a national F4 championship, before moving up to European F3 and now towards F2. Over the past few years, we have developed a very successful FIA Formula 4 championship program in twelve countries worldwide, and the FIA European F3 championship has become very strong and competitive. Today’s announcement allows us to strengthen this program.

“But if the GP2 gains visibility and clarity by becoming F2, this nevertheless raises questions about the future of the GP3. Indeed, since its creation seven years ago, this championship had positioned itself as an intermediate step between F3 and GP2, as evidenced by the career path of Charles Leclerc, its most recent champion.”

With the FIA’s intention to make F3 the championship that supplies drivers to F2, the GP3 risks being marginalized and losing interest among drivers. Its main advantage remains that its races are held during F1 weekends.

As the first race weekend is scheduled for April 14th, it is a race against time for the organizing team and all the teams to adopt a completely new signage. Indeed, all the trucks, suits, and equipment bear the GP2 name and must therefore be updated, while explaining the new organization to the various partners.

With the participation of www.racingbusiness.fr