Formula 2 is set to surprise fans with a supersized race weekend format in Baku on 24-26 September 2026. Round 12 of the season will be the only event featuring two qualifying sessions and two Feature Races, an unprecedented experiment.
The change applies only to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where F2 is the sole support category. Bruno Michel, FIA Formula 2 CEO, revealed that the timetable created an opportunity to expand the show. "As Formula 2 is the only Support Event at the Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix, together with the promoters, we have opted for a supersized F2 race weekend," he said.
The revised schedule will run across three days. Thursday morning brings a single 45-minute Free Practice session, followed in the afternoon by two consecutive 20-minute Qualifying sessions. Friday will begin with the Sprint Race, with the grid set in reverse order from the first Qualifying session, followed by the first Feature Race in the afternoon, with the grid taken directly from that same Qualifying session. The second Feature Race follows on Saturday morning, with the grid set by the results of the second Qualifying session.
Pole position in the Qualifying sessions will carry 2 points, while both Feature Races will use the standard points allocation, including the Fastest Lap point for drivers finishing in the top ten, in line with the FIA Formula 2 Sporting Regulations. As a result, the total points on offer in Baku will be significantly higher, opening opportunities for drivers to make a leap in the standings.
Michel confirmed the format will not be repeated for the remainder of the season. "We will then revert to our usual race weekend format for the final two rounds of the 2026 season, which will be held at Doha and Yas Marina," he added. The final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will revert to the standard format of one Free Practice session, one Qualifying session, a Sprint Race and a Feature Race.
With the notoriously tight and challenging street circuit of Baku, the new format is predicted to intensify competition. Drivers must perform at their best in two qualifying sessions and two main races, while teams need to be sharp on strategy and tyre management. Baku City Circuit always delivers thrilling racing, and now with additional sessions, the excitement will be multiplied.
This decision also aligns with F2's efforts to continuously innovate and provide maximum entertainment for fans. Although it's just a trial, this supersized format could become a blueprint for the future, especially at circuits with tight schedules. For now, however, the focus is on how drivers adapt to this unique format and who can emerge as a double winner in Baku.
Read Also
Nikola Tsolov still leads the 2026 F2 standings after Madrid, but Rafael Camara and Gabriele Mini are closing in. The title fight heats up ahead of Baku.
Dino Beganovic dominates Madrid F2 Feature Race to claim maiden victory. Read the full race report and results from a dramatic weekend in Spain.
Ugo Ugochukwu wins 2026 F3 title in Madrid as Dino Beganovic takes F2 Feature Race victory. Full results and championship impact.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!