Formula 1’s main support championship bid farewell to its long-serving Dallara-built F2 2018 chassis at the end of last year. The iconic Italian manufacturer has now introduced a bold and revolutionary new car for this year’s F2 season. Boasting radically revamped aerodynamics, enhanced racing capabilities, and improved safety credentials, the new car is set to take the F2 championships to new heights.
In the weeks leading up to the shakedown, the new car underwent extensive testing, covering a impressive distance of close to 5,000km. Drivers Felipe Drugovich, the reigning 2022 F2 champion, and Tatiana Calderon pushed the boundaries of the car across the iconic circuits of Magny-Cours, Jerez, and Bahrain. The teams eagerly awaited their first machines, and recently, each of the 11 teams received their new cars.
The excitement was palpable on the day of the shakedown as all 11 teams took to the track, putting the new car through its paces. A total of 649 laps were logged during six hours of intense track running. Prema rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli stood out, completing 53 tours, more than any other driver. F2 technical director Pierre-Alain Michot described the shakedown as “a good first step” in preparation for the upcoming race in Bahrain.
Michot emphasized the importance of the shakedown in allowing the teams to familiarize themselves with the new car and ensure that all systems are functioning optimally. The teams managed to achieve an impressive amount of mileage, which was seen as a positive sign. Michot also praised the performance of the cars, highlighting the absence of any red flags, indicating that the cars performed as expected.
While the shakedown yielded positive results, Michot acknowledged that there are still some minor adjustments to be made before the first official test session. He emphasized the significance of each team’s unique working style in contributing to the collective knowledge about this new car. The teams are committed to making the necessary refinements before the start of the season, ensuring that the cars are in peak condition for racing.
ART Grand Prix driver Victor Martins expressed his satisfaction with the new car, noting that the overall feeling has not changed significantly compared to the previous model. This familiarity has given him the confidence to utilize his experience effectively in the upcoming season. Martins highlighted the reliable performance of the car during the shakedown, stating that it was a very positive start to their journey.
One of the major changes in the new car is its aerodynamics, which were thoroughly tested during the shakedown. Teams focused on fine-tuning the aerodynamic features, as it represents the most significant change from the previous model. Additionally, they began working on the car’s setup, aiming to develop a configuration that will be effective when they race in Bahrain. The goal is to meticulously test and develop different elements while maximizing track time without causing any damage to the car.
As the F2 championships embark on this new era with the powerful Dallara-built car, anticipation and excitement fill the air. The shakedown has provided valuable insights, and the teams are determined to continue refining and optimizing the car’s performance. With each passing test session and race, the drivers and teams will inch closer to their ultimate goal of excellence. The new F2 car represents the culmination of innovation, safety, and thrilling racing, promising a captivating season ahead.
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