Ritomo Miyata Eyes Podium After Strong Qualifying at Spa-Francorchamps

After delivering an impressive qualifying performance in FIA Formula 2, Ritomo Miyata from Japan attributes his success to the confidence he built during the Friday morning practice session. The ART Grand Prix driver secured a spot on the front row for Sunday’s Feature Race at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit, finishing just behind Alex Dunne from Rodin, who clinched pole position with an outstanding lap time.

Building Confidence through Practice

Miyata, who is 25 years old, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “Finally, we could do a really good job. Earlier in the season, we faced some challenges that hindered our ability to push for better results, but this weekend has been different.” His determination to improve was evident as he finished the qualifying session in second place, a significant achievement for both him and the ART team.

Miyata’s performance stood out as he outqualified his teammate, Victor Martins, who has been a consistent strong performer in F2 this season. Martins, a French driver, secured the fourth-fastest time, contributing to a solid showing for the ART team on Friday. The collaborative effort and mutual support within the team played a crucial role in their success, highlighting the importance of teamwork in motorsport.

A Solid Day for ART Grand Prix

After the qualifying session, Miyata reflected on the team’s overall performance, emphasizing their strategic approach to improving the car’s capabilities. “We always strive to enhance the car’s performance,” he noted. “It’s important to focus on driving, but this weekend, both cars showed promising potential.” The ART team’s ability to maximize their performance during qualifying was evident, as both drivers managed to secure positions near the front of the grid.

Qualifying is a critical aspect of racing, particularly at a track like Spa-Francorchamps, where drivers often rely on drafting to gain speed. Miyata and his team worked diligently to ensure they achieved the best possible results during this crucial session. With both cars in the top four, the ART team is optimistic about their prospects for the race.

Looking Ahead to Race Day

As race day approaches, Miyata is focused on achieving his first podium finish in Formula 2. When asked about his goals for the Feature Race, he expressed, “If we can win the race, that would be the ideal scenario. However, realistically, I believe the best finish we could aim for is around P7 or P8. Our primary goal is to secure that first podium.” His determination to perform at his best, regardless of the weather conditions, showcases his competitive spirit.

While ART Grand Prix has experienced strong performances during qualifying sessions, they have sometimes struggled with race pace. This inconsistency has been a point of concern for the team, which has only secured one podium in the 2025 season thus far. That podium came during the Feature Race in Saudi Arabia, where Martins finished in third place. The team is eager to build on their recent successes and translate their qualifying prowess into race results.

The Challenge Ahead

With both Miyata and Martins starting in favorable positions, they will be looking to capitalize on their qualifying success and challenge Dunne, who will be starting in pole position. The competition in Formula 2 is fierce, and every driver on the grid is eager to prove themselves. Miyata recognizes the challenges that lie ahead, particularly if weather conditions turn unfavorable. “If it rains, we know it will be a tough race, but we must always strive to do our best,” he stated, displaying his readiness for whatever challenges race day may bring.

The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is known for its unpredictable weather and challenging layout, which can test even the most skilled drivers. As Miyata prepares for the Feature Race, he remains focused on executing a strong strategy and maintaining his composure throughout the event. The experience gained from previous races will be invaluable as he navigates the complexities of the track.

The Importance of Team Dynamics

In motorsport, the synergy between driver and team is essential for success. Miyata’s relationship with his teammate Martins is a significant factor in their performance. Both drivers have been supportive of one another, pushing each other to improve and achieve their goals. The ART Grand Prix team has worked diligently to foster an environment where collaboration and communication thrive, which is crucial for developing a competitive race car.

Moreover, the team’s engineers and strategists play a pivotal role in ensuring that both drivers have the tools they need to succeed. From data analysis to car setup adjustments, every aspect of the team’s approach is geared towards maximizing performance on race day. This level of preparation and teamwork is vital for navigating the challenges of Formula 2.

Experience and Growth

Miyata’s journey in Formula 2 has been marked by growth and learning. Each race presents new opportunities to refine his skills and build upon his experiences. Competing against a talented field of drivers has pushed him to elevate his performance continually. The lessons learned from previous races, coupled with the confidence gained during practice and qualifying, have set the stage for a promising race weekend.

As he reflects on his time in Formula 2, Miyata understands the importance of resilience and adaptability in motorsport. The ability to learn from setbacks and remain focused on the goal is essential for any driver aspiring to reach the top echelons of racing.

The Road to Success

Miyata’s aspirations for a podium finish at Spa-Francorchamps are indicative of his competitive spirit and determination to succeed in Formula 2. The journey to the top is often fraught with challenges, but it’s the pursuit of excellence that drives him forward. Each race serves as a stepping stone toward achieving his ultimate goal of competing at the highest level in motorsport.

With the support of his team, Miyata is poised to make the most of this opportunity. The excitement of competing at a legendary circuit like Spa-Francorchamps adds to the thrill of race day. As he gears up for the Feature Race, he remains focused on executing his strategy and delivering a strong performance.

In conclusion, Ritomo Miyata’s impressive qualifying result at Spa-Francorchamps has set the stage for an exciting Feature Race. With confidence gained from practice and a supportive team behind him, he is determined to chase his first Formula 2 podium. The combination of skill, teamwork, and a competitive mindset will be crucial as he navigates the challenges ahead, aiming for success on race day.