The Dutch and Formula 2 – A Golden Combination
Not only in Formula 1 is the national anthem a common song, but also in Formula 2, the Dutch national anthem often knows its way around. Indeed, the Dutch are fairly often successful in Formula 2. The Formula 2 racing class has changed its name and set-up several times over the years.
History of Dutch in Formula 2
The history of Dutchmen in Formula 2 dates back to the early years of competition, when the racing class still served as the gateway to Formula 1.
Drivers like Arie Luyendyk and Jan Lammers were the first Dutchmen to get their foot in the door in this racing class. Without achieving much success, they laid the foundation of Dutch presence in international motorsport.
Dutch drivers have achieved remarkable performances in Formula 2. Names like Giedo van der Garde and Robin Frijns emerge as drivers who not only won races, but also performed consistently at a high level. Their successes include impressive victories, multiple podium finishes and, for Frijns, winning the championship in 2012.
Current Generation of Dutch Drivers in Formula 2
Dutch drivers currently or recently active in Formula 2 are Richard Verschoor and Nyck de Vries. They did/do this successfully.
This is how Nyck de Vries won the championship in 2019, after which he entered Formula 1, unfortunately this was not a success. Richard Verschoor made his F2 debut in 2021 and has competed every season since. In this season (2024), Verschoor will race for Italian Trident. De Vries drives for Mahindra Racing in Formula E.
Dutch Teams in 2024
Not only are Dutch drivers competing, but there are also Dutch teams present. For instance, teams MP Motosport and Van Amersfoort racing are competing in 2024. They have no Dutch drivers this year.
Both teams achieved success at Jeddah Corniche Circuit this season, round 1 Paul Aron won on behalf of MP Motorsport and round 2 Enzo Fittipaldi on behalf of Van Amersfoort Racing.
The Future of the Dutch in Formula 2
The future for Dutch drivers in Formula 2 looks bright. Thanks to a strong motorsport culture and the success of the Dutch on the world stage.
With the emergence of young talent from lower racing classes, combined with continued development of the sport in the Netherlands, a supply of drivers ready to challenge Formula 2 is very realistic. Thanks to advanced training programmes and increasing support from the industry, Dutch drivers are better equipped than ever. As a result, moving up the ranks is not unthinkable.
These positive developments point to a future in which the Netherlands can make an ongoing and significant contribution to the talent landscape in Formula 2, further opening the door to Formula 1 opportunities. This will hopefully allow the successes of their predecessors to continue.
