After six rounds of the FIA Formula 2 season, Marcus Armstrong has finally clinched a long-awaited F2 victory at Saudi Arabia.

Armstrong made it to the top spot of the podium alongside his fellow Kiwi, Liam Lawson, as he took the opportunity to seize the lead from Lawson on Lap 1.

But Lawson continued to pressure the DAMS driver in the final moments of Sprint Race 1, attempting to claim his second win of 2021 while defying Armstrong.

Armstrong held on, however, and the New Zealand driver was relieved to finally make his revival after a year of unfortunate events. Armstrong reflected on his journey in the championship with two podiums with ART last season. 

He said: “Finally, back in the press conference room. It is good to be back and to have a first-place trophy.” 

“It was a bit of a tough last lap. Liam (Lawson) didn’t give up, so that was cool. I am not sure if that was televised, but my engineer was certainly nervous.”

This Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend finally sees DAMS’ hard work over the season pay off, earning their highest finish so far.

Besides the relief of becoming F2’s 10th different winner this year, it’s the smiles of the people working behind the success at DAMS that keeps the 21-year-old driver satisfied.

“I am very happy to finally get that trophy and to reward the boys in blue,” mentioned Armstrong. 

“Saying that, I have to get ready for my next race because it’s in around four hours, so let’s enjoy that.”

Image: Formula Motorsport Ltd