In a light-hearted conversation on The F2 Show podcast, young Italian driver Leonardo Fornaroli shared details of his career, his experiences in Formula 2, and behind-the-scenes insights from life on the track. At just 19 years old, Fornaroli impresses with the maturity he brings to the challenges of motorsport.
Debuting in Formula 2 isn’t just a change of category — it’s a real technical, physical, and mental leap. Leonardo spoke about his path in karting, which he began at the age of seven, and a bit about his current stage in racing.
“I started when I was seven, which now is quite late. It’s really late for today’s standards,” he joked, explaining that most new-generation drivers start even younger. “My first kart was actually a two-stroke engine kart, which is quite fast for a kid that age. But I was just so happy to drive it. That’s the moment I really fell in love with racing.”
His passion for the sport came from his father, who raced as a hobby. “My dad loved cars and motorsport. I grew up watching races with him. One day he brought me to try a kart in a parking lot, and that’s how it all started.”
After years in karting, Fornaroli made the jump to single-seaters in 2020, starting with Italian Formula 4. “It was not easy. The car was completely different — more power, more aerodynamics. I had to change completely my driving style.” Still, Leonardo stood out, showing consistency throughout the races.
He also spoke about his rookie season in Formula 2 with Trident: “It’s really intense. The competition, the physical and mental challenge… it’s a big step up from the lower categories.” But he insists he’s ready: “I feel like I’m improving race by race. I still have a lot to learn, but I’m on the right path.”
When asked about the F2 environment, Fornaroli revealed that although the competition is fierce, there’s mutual respect among the drivers. “There’s a lot of respect outside the car. Of course, everyone wants to win, but we all respect each other.”
He also talked about the peculiarities of the calendar and the tracks. “My favorite track is Spa. I really love Spa. It’s such a long track and very technical. Eau Rouge is something really special.” On the other hand, he didn’t hide his frustration with certain races: “We had some weekends that were really difficult — technical issues, strategy decisions that didn’t go our way.”
He was also asked how much he had to adapt his driving style since joining F2. His answer was direct and revealing: “Yes. Completely,” Fornaroli said without hesitation. “You kind of need to forget what you were doing in Formula 3. It just doesn’t work. You come into F2 with some instincts, with some habits, and they just don’t apply anymore.”
According to him, the difference between F3 and F2 is about more than just power: “F3 is more about carrying speed through the corners, being smooth and consistent. In F2, you need to be more aggressive — brake hard, slow everything down, rotate the car, and then apply all the power. It’s a completely different philosophy.”
Off the track, Leonardo keeps a focused and disciplined routine. “I like to train, do simulator work, and watch old races. My life really revolves around motorsport,” he said. Even so, he tries to find moments to relax: “When I can, I like to spend time with friends and family, and I love music — especially classic rock.”
One of the most lighthearted moments of the interview came when he spoke about his race-day superstitions. “I always get into the car from the left side. And I put my right glove on before the left one. I don’t know why, but that’s become my ritual.”
With his eyes set on Formula 1, Leonardo knows he needs to deliver consistent results. “Formula 1 is the dream for everyone here. I know it’s hard, but I’m focused on improving as a driver and taking every opportunity I get.” He emphasized the importance of his team: “Trident is doing a fantastic job with me. They believe in me, and that gives me confidence as well.”
At the end of the interview, Fornaroli left a message for his fans: “Thank you to everyone who supports me. You really make a difference. I hope to give you some good races — and maybe some wins — soon.”
Credit: IMAGO / PsnewZ
