CEO of F2 and F3, Bruno Michel, discusses steering young drivers to F1, highlighting success stories of Hamilton, Leclerc, and other F1 stars from his racing series. Talks about developing a pathway to F1, future talents like Ollie Bearman and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and the role of the F1 Academy. Sponsored by Indochino and Fitbod. Collaborative efforts in Formula One, managing points system, and the evolution of young driver academies in F1 teams are also explored.
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Quick takeaways
Bruno Michel has been instrumental in nurturing young talent for F1 through Formula 2 and Formula 3.
F2 cars are designed with a balance in performance, safety, and cost to prepare drivers for F1 challenges.
Innovations like reverse grid races in F2 enhance competition and talent display, influencing dynamic formats in F1.
Deep dives
Evolution of the Racing Series
Launched 20 years ago, the racing series created by Bruno Michel to groom drivers for F1 has seen exceptional talents rise. Notable names like Rosberg and Hamilton transitioned swiftly to F1 after winning in GP2. The ladder built by Michel, now known as F2 and F3, emphasizes direct exposure on F1 circuits to attract team attention. Key features include identical cars and an emphasis on driver preparation for the F1 stage.
Challenges in Car Development
The new Formula 2 car, designed to mirror F1 standards, faces a delicate balance in performance, safety, and cost. Michel navigates complexities in creating a car capable of preparing drivers for F1 challenges within set cost constraints. Emphasis on simplicity and efficient systems like DRS, along with overtaking abilities, aligns F2's competitiveness with entertaining races, crucial for attracting audiences and talent.
Advancing Racing Formats
Innovations like reverse grid races introduced in F2 initially faced criticism but proved instrumental in enhancing competition and showcasing driver abilities. Michel's pragmatic approach to format changes ensures a balance between engaging races and driver development. Discussions on sprint races in F1 show openness to dynamic formats, aiming to enhance entertainment and skill display while maintaining a cost-effective approach.
GP2's Influence on Formula 1 Driver Development
The inception of GP2 marked a significant shift in Formula 1 driver development, with emerging talents like Rosberg, Hamilton, and Hulkenberg making their mark in the series. GP2's integration with Formula 1 and its competitive races elevated the interest in the motorsport world, attracting strong drivers like Leclerc, showcasing their skills on a global stage. The success of drivers transitioning from GP2 to Formula 1 established GP2 as the benchmark for driver talent assessment and development.
Safety Enhancements in Motorsport Post Tragedy
Following a tragic weekend in motorsport, characterized by the loss of Antoine Hubert in Formula 2, significant safety enhancements were implemented in the sport. Measures such as TPMS integration, crash box enhancements, and stringent crash tests were introduced to bolster driver safety. The focus on safety advancements across Formula 2 and Formula 1 aimed to minimize risks and ensure that drivers compete in safer competitive environments, while learning from past incidents to prevent future tragedies.
Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, Oscar Piastri and George Russell are just a handful of the Formula 1 stars born in Bruno Michel’s racing series. Multiple F1 World Champions and Grand Prix-winners have risen from Formula 2 and Formula 3, previously known as GP2 and GP3.
From the very first GP2 champion, Nico Rosberg, to Lando Norris, Nico Hulkenberg, Pierre Gasly, Valtteri Bottas and many more, Bruno has been supporting young drivers in their journey to the pinnacle of motorsport for two decades. He tells Tom Clarkson how he built the ladder to Formula 1, why Hamilton and Leclerc particularly stood out, and his prior work as manager to drivers including Fernando Alonso and Mark Webber.
As F1 teams look to sign stars for the 2025 season, Bruno explains why future Haas driver Ollie Bearman is ready to step up to the top level, and what Mercedes junior driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli can do to claim his place in F1. Plus, how F1 Academy will become a pathway to F3 and beyond.
Experience F1, F2 + F3 live in 2024
Book your seat at a Grand Prix today. The second half of the season is on sale now at tickets.formula1.com
This episode is sponsored by:
Indochino: go to indochino.com and use code GRID to get 10% off any purchase of $399 or more
Fitbod: join Fitbod today to get your personalized workout plan. Get 25% off your subscription or try the app FREE at Fitbod.me/GRID
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