We certainly didn't expect such a start to the season. In six races we have seen five different riders grab the first position, of which only one managed to repeat the victory. The trio of Middle Eastern and Oceanic weekends has concluded. Now, Formula 2 will set its first foot on the old continent in Baku to usher in the start of the European season. Expectations for the championship fight have risen, but who can really aim to conquer the iris?
The championship standings after Australia
In the land of kangaroos, somewhat clearer hierarchies have begun to establish themselves. Without a doubt, leaving the Australian weekend cleaner than the others Ayumu Iwasa, on the strength of a solid start that guarantees him a eight points advantage over the first pursuer: Théo Pourchaire. At the same distance – 8 points – Frederik Vesti chases the French of the Art. The Danish is in turn followed by a 'double 33' made up of Boshung and Leclerc. Daruvala follows, one point behind the duo just mentioned.
Iwasa's excellent start makes him dream of the championship
There's no getting around it, the class of 2001 from Osaka has all the air of being able to aspire to something concrete. the pilot of the Red Bull Academy has shifted into higher gear since the second half of last season. It is no coincidence that she won the award for best newcomer. He has a good pace in qualifying, However a pole position in Melbourne's dire weather conditions is not achieved by chance; is strong in overtaking and knows how to stand up to those who have a few more years of experience. The young Japanese has the opportunity to demonstrate what Hauger and Lawson have not demonstrated. Certainly, a good placement in the final standings wouldn't be a bad calling card to present yourself in the presence of Helmut Marko.
What Pourchaire lacks is Vesti's run-up
The Frenchman from the Alfa Romeo Academy is certainly one of the favorites in the fight for the title. Last year he finished second in the championship at 101 lengths of the first position. He certainly expected more, but the mix between young age and vast experience, given that he has been competing in Formula 2020 since 2, makes him a threat for anyone who aspires to conquer the iris. The number 5 of the Art is a good qualifier, but sometimes lacks consistency. In Saudi Arabia, for example, he caught a double zero which is costing him several points. If he rounds off the corners of his performance, he will also be able to aim for the top flight, given the wind of change that has recently enveloped Alfa Romeo in view of 2026.
Attention also to another junior: Frederik Vesti was not chosen by chance for the Mercedes young driver programme, and we know how much the star prefers quality over quantity. The Dane had a dramatic start in Bahrain, but the third position in the championship testifies to the good things he did in his attempt to get back on top. After the victory in Jeddah he will certainly have acquired the extra dose of confidence needed to keep up with the top seeds. The credentials to do well already in the second year are there.
Boschung and Leclerc: two threats starting at the antipodes
The Swiss and the Monegasque, as anticipated, they are tied on points in fourth and fifth position. If Boschung had a great start winning in Bahrain, Leclerc started slowly, increasing his intensity from race to race. The Monegasque is the first of eight debutants. Also distinguishing the two is experience. Boschung is in Formula 2 since 2017, a veteran, while Leclerc comes from a so-so season in formula 3, who finished sixth. It's hard to say if the Monegasque from Dams will be able to worry his opponents in the title race, what is certain is that the potential is not lacking, it will be a different matter to put him on the field.
SOURCES: gpblog.com
