Trident in Melbourne, looking for a confirmation at Albert Park
The early double trip to the Middle East did not provide precise indications regarding the values on the field in the new season of the FIA Formula 2 Championship. The results of the opening round in Bahrain were only partially reflected in the second round held in Saudi Arabia, on a technically very different circuit. From Albert Park in Melbourne, which will host round 3 next weekend, we expect to have some more convincing indications on where teams and drivers stand in terms of form, and what their respective ambitions may be.
Trident Motorsport did not secure points in Bahrain, but won the Sprint Race in Jeddah with Richard Verschoor, who was subsequently removed from the classification due to a throttle mapping infraction which had no influence on the Dutchman’s performance level. Verschoor concluded the Red Sea weekend with a P8 in the Feature Race, which gave him and Trident Motorsport their first four points of the season.
On the other hand, Roman Staněk is yet to score his first points. After an encouraging 11th place in Qualifying at Jeddah, the Czech driver did not have the necessary consistency. Staněk will therefore have the goal of improving his position on the challenging semi-permanent course of the State of Victoria. The drivers and technical staff prepared the third round of the season with attention and determination. Now the word will go back to the track.
Giacomo Ricci, Team Manager: “We worked hard after returning from Jeddah, using the data from the first two races. The potential shown by our cars is encouraging, but we know we have areas to be improved. I saw energy and determination in the preparation work for Melbourne by the technical staff and drivers. The Albert Park circuit is semi-permanent and has unique characteristics. It will be key to find the best possible chemistry and lay the foundations for a successful weekend starting with an incisive qualifying session."
The FIA Formula 2 Championship will start on Friday at 10 with the 45-minute free practice session. Qualifying is scheduled for the same day, at 17:30. Saturday will host the Sprint Race at 14:15. The Feature Race, which will conclude the weekend, will start on Sunday at 11:35. The activity on the track will be fully broadcasted live by Sky Sport F1. Times are local. (GMT+11).