Difference Formula 1 and 2: the distinction between two racing classes

For avid racing enthusiasts and fans of Formula 1 racing, it is no secret that apart from the king class of motorsport, Formula 1, there is another important stepping stone to Formula 1, namely Formula 2. Although Formula 1 attracts millions of viewers worldwide and steals the limelight, there is a much more competitive Formula 2 in Formula 1’s entrée. Drivers want to prove themselves in Formula 2 and do everything they can to secure a seat in Formula 1. In this article, we are going to tell you more about the significant differences between Formula 1 and Formula 2 and give you a better understanding of what makes this step-up class so interesting.

Speed and vehicle power:

Formula 1 is known as the fastest racing class in the world, where drivers reach high speeds in powerful cars. In comparison, Formula 2 drivers drive cars that have less power. As a result, they cannot go as fast as Formula 1 cars. Another big difference is that Formula 2 bolides are identical to each other. In Formula 1, you know beforehand which teams are more likely to win, which many believe detracts a bit from the excitement of the sport. In Formula 2, the focus is on the skills of the driver himself. By having identical cars, there is fierce competition and the races are a spectacle for spectators to watch. Due to the relative simplicity of Formula 2 cars, the costs associated with Formula 2 are significantly lower than those of Formula 1.

Difference between Formula 1 and 2 in race preparation

Unlike Formula 1, where drivers have extensive preparation time with multiple free practice sessions and a complex qualifying procedure, Formula 2 has less preparation time. The entry-level class has a free practice session of only 45 minutes. This is followed by a half-hour qualifying session with no division into sessions. The short training and qualifying times are somewhat compensated by two races that drivers race in the same weekend.

Race formats: the difference between Formula 1 and 2

In Formula 1, there is one main race during a Grand Prix weekend. This usually has a minimum distance of 300 kilometres or a maximum duration of two hours. In Formula 2, this is slightly different and two races are held. The first race, also known as the sprint race, takes place on Saturday. Here, drivers cover a distance of about 120 kilometres or last at least 45 minutes. Drivers are not required to make a pit stop to change tyres. The position of the sprint race is determined by the reverse results of Friday’s qualifying. So suppose a driver takes pole position on Friday, he will start in spot 10 in the sprint race. On Sunday, the feature race is on the Formula 2 programme. The distance the drivers have to cover is 170 kilometres or a duration of at least 60 minutes. The position on the grid is again determined by Friday’s qualifying, however it will not be reversed and the driver who takes pole position on Friday will actually start at the front of the race on Sunday. In the feature race, tyres must be changed at least once.

Points distribution

Formula 2 uses a different points distribution than Formula 1. Below is a clear overview of the points distribution in the sprint race and in the feature race.

Moreover, in Formula 2, points are awarded to the driver with the fastest lap (2 points) and the driver in pole position (2 points). A driver can therefore obtain a maximum of 39 points in one weekend.

Technical equality

Teams in Formula 1 can customise and optimise almost every aspect of their cars. In Formula 2, everything is standardised, resulting in similar vehicles for all drivers. This generally reduces differences between drivers and contributes to more exciting races for spectators.

In summary, Formula 1 and Formula 2 are two remarkable racing classes. Both with significant differences in speed, preparation, race formats, points distribution and technical regulations. While Formula 1 represents the absolute best in motorsport, Formula 2 has a role as a breeding ground for young talents on their way to success in Formula 1. Both classes offer unique experiences and excitement for motorsport fans around the world.