Exciting Showdown in Abu Dhabi: F2 and Formula Trophy Season Finale
As the sun sets on the thrilling 2025 Formula 1 season, all eyes are on the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, where the season finale promises to deliver an adrenaline-pumping spectacle. The spotlight isn’t solely on the pinnacle of motorsport, though, as the Formula 2 and Formula Trophy series are set to provide their own electrifying races as support events. This weekend, motorsport enthusiasts can expect a blend of high-octane action and a compelling narrative as drivers vie for their chance to shine on this prestigious stage.
A Triple Title Decider in F1
This weekend marks a significant occasion in the world of F1, as it features the first three-way title decider in 15 years. While the anticipation around the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is palpable, the excitement of the feeder series events, particularly Formula 2, should not be overlooked. The F2 championship concludes its season at this iconic circuit, and with several drivers eager to make their mark, the stage is set for a thrilling climax.
F2 Drivers Making F1 Debuts
As the F2 season wraps up, several drivers will get the chance to experience the thrill of Formula 1 machinery during free practice sessions. Among them, Jak Crawford and Cian Shields will take the wheel for Aston Martin, while Luke Browning steps in for Alex Albon at Williams. Additionally, Arvid Lindblad will drive Yuki Tsunoda’s Red Bull, having recently secured a seat for the 2026 F1 season with sister squad Racing Bulls. This opportunity is a significant milestone for these young talents, showcasing the pathway from feeder series to the pinnacle of motorsport.
The Fierce Battle for Championship Positions
Even though Leonardo Fornaroli has already clinched the F2 championship title, the competition remains fierce for the runner-up position and the teams’ championship title. With four drivers still in contention for the second place, the stakes are high. Richard Verschoor and Jak Crawford are currently tied at 170 points each, with Luke Browning closely trailing at 162 points, and Alex Dunne sitting at 149 points. Invicta Racing leads the teams’ championship with 296 points, while Hitech and Campos are striving to close the gap, sitting at 35 and 57 points behind, respectively.
The previous season saw Gabriel Bortoleto, the eventual champion, achieve podium finishes in both races held in Abu Dhabi. Although he has since graduated to F1, Verschoor and Joshua Dürksen, who shared the podium with Bortoleto, aim to replicate their strong performances. Dino Beganovic, who finished third in last year’s sprint race, will also be a key driver to watch as the season concludes.
New Faces in the F2 Lineup
A notable change in the driver lineup will see Tasanapol Inthraphuvasak make his debut in F2 with Trident, replacing James Wharton. The young Thai driver joined Trident for the Macau Grand Prix last month and is set to continue his journey in F2 next year with ART Grand Prix. This transition not only adds depth to the competition but also highlights the dynamic nature of the feeder series, where fresh talent continually emerges.
Formula Trophy: A New Chapter Begins
Alongside F2, the Formula Trophy will also host its second round at the Yas Marina Circuit. This series supports the F1 event and is gaining attention for its own competitive narrative. Theo Palmer from Hitech leads the championship standings with 51 points, followed closely by rookie Alp Aksoy from Mumbai Falcons. The excitement surrounding this series is palpable, especially after both Palmer and Aksoy secured wins during the previous round in Dubai.
With the unique structure of the Formula Trophy, which allows for significant points to be earned in each race, the upcoming weekend will be crucial for drivers looking to make a mark. Each race is critical, especially with only 100 points remaining across the next two rounds. Every position gained can dramatically shift the championship standings, making this weekend a vital opportunity for competitors.
The Rising Talent of Young Drivers
The Formula Trophy will see several exciting additions to the lineup, including Australian teenager Nicolas Stati and Vietnamese driver Ben Anh Nguyễn. Both are transitioning from F4, showcasing the progression of young talent through the ranks. Stati, who finished eighth in the Formula Trophy UAE last year, has his sights set on a planned 2026 campaign in Indy NXT, while Nguyễn is making his mark after a solid performance in F4 SEA.
In addition to these newcomers, the series will also feature Oleksandr Bondarev, stepping in for Payton Westcott at Mumbai Falcons. Westcott will compete in the F4 Saudi Arabia season finale, demonstrating the interconnected nature of these racing series.
Weather and Race Schedule
Fans attending the races can expect a mix of weather conditions throughout the weekend. Friday is forecasted to be partly cloudy, while Saturday and Sunday promise sunny skies, creating an ideal environment for racing. The Yas Marina Circuit, a 5.281 km track, is known for its stunning backdrop and challenging layout, making it a favorite among drivers and fans alike.
F2 Race Schedule
Friday, December 5
- 11:05–11:50: Free Practice
- 15:00–15:30: Qualifying
Saturday, December 6
- 16:15–17:00: Sprint Race (23 laps)
- Sunday, December 7
- 13:15–14:15: Feature Race (33 laps)
Formula Trophy Race Schedule
Friday, December 5
- 08:45–09:30: Free Practice
- 15:55–16:25: Qualifying
- Saturday, December 6
- Races scheduled for later in the weekend.
How to Follow the Action
For those unable to attend in person, all F2 sessions will be live-streamed on F1 TV, allowing fans to catch every moment of the action. Meanwhile, Formula Trophy races will be streamed trackside but will not be available for public viewing. Live timing will also be accessible to keep fans updated on the performance of their favorite drivers.
In conclusion, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend is shaping up to be a monumental occasion for both Formula 1 and its supporting series. With a thrilling F2 season finale and the captivating second round of the Formula Trophy, motorsport fans are in for an unforgettable experience. As the drivers take to the Yas Marina Circuit, they will not only be racing for points but also for their place in the future of motorsport. The excitement is palpable, and the stakes have never been higher.
