Following a closely fought FIA Formula 2 Qualifying Session at the Austrian Red Bull Ring, drivers Richard Verschoor, Leonardo Fornaroli, and Victor Martins offered their insights in a press conference, discussing their performances, strategies, and expectations heading into the Sprint Race.
The atmosphere was reflective but forward-looking, with each driver acknowledging both the technical challenges of the circuit and the personal lessons they are continuing to learn during the demanding 2025 season.
ART Grand Prix’s Victor Martins took a candid approach when asked about what he might do differently going forward. “A bit of everything,” he admitted. “I sometimes take too many risks. Racing is so close sometimes it’s hard to do everything right… You just need to trust the process and move on.” Martins’ statement reflects the high-pressure environment of Formula 2, where the margins are razor-thin and even minor errors can have significant consequences.
Despite his self-critique, Martins also touched on an interesting aspect of race strategy: the use of slipstreams. “I don’t mind clean air or dirty air. Sometimes it makes a small difference. If one person starts looking at the slipstream, then everyone starts looking,” he said. His flexible approach suggests a seasoned understanding of the nuances of aerodynamic strategy on a track that demands technical precision.
Invicta Racing’s Leonardo Fornaroli, competing in his rookie season, echoed similar sentiments on the technical complexity of the Red Bull Ring. “We tend to struggle in the Sprint Race because it is so technical, so I tend to try to maximize on what I can do,” he said. With its combination of fast straights and tight corners, the Austrian circuit tests both car setup and driver adaptability. For Fornaroli, making the most of every opportunity, especially in shorter races where strategy windows are limited, is key to consistent performance.
When asked whether he prefers running in clean air or using the tow, Fornaroli showed a clear preference: “I like clean air better, and when I am behind someone, I tend to stay right behind them.” This tactic highlights a driver still learning to balance aggression with control, especially when in traffic.
Meanwhile, MP Motorsport’s Richard Verschoor expressed a strong sense of confidence in his overall form. “I have felt very confident in the team and the car,” he stated. “I want to be able to show that I can perform well and not take too many risks. I feel like I am always strong.” Verschoor’s consistent self-belief has been one of his strengths this season, and with experience on his side, he appears focused on measured, high-quality performances rather than dramatic heroics.
Interestingly, Verschoor also weighed in on the debate about running in turbulent air. “It is more of a personal preference,” he said. “When I was behind Victor, I started going wide and making mistakes since I was so close.” His honest reflection illustrates the delicate balance between maintaining a competitive pace and ensuring precision in braking, which can be a challenge amplified when trailing closely behind another car.
While each driver brings a different perspective, there is a shared recognition of the importance of mental clarity and adaptability. The Red Bull Ring, with its mix of elevation changes and technical sections, requires drivers to be in full control of both their car and mindset.
Looking ahead to the FIA Formula 2 Sprint Race, the press conference revealed that strategy, personal growth, and team support will play critical roles in shaping the outcome. Whether it’s Martins’ ongoing process of risk management, Fornaroli’s learning curve on technical circuits, or Verschoor’s commitment to consistent execution, each driver is approaching the challenge with a unique mindset rooted in experience, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of improvement.
As the weekend progresses, all eyes will be on how these insights translate onto the track. With a tightly packed grid and the championship stakes rising, the Sprint Race promises not only action but a deeper test of each driver’s growth under pressure.
Photo by Malcolm Griffiths – Formula 1/Formula Motorsport Limited via Getty Images
