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May 21, 2024

F2/F3 Power Rankings - Historic Imola Race Witness South American Triumph

Discover the latest F2/F3 Power Rankings reflecting the monumental Imola race where South American drivers achieved historic success, marking a significant triumph in motorsport history.

The European segment of the Formula 1 season has commenced, signaling the return of its two primary feeder series, F2 and F3.

As anticipated in the lower tiers, there was a wealth of entertainment (and safety car interventions) during much of the Grand Prix, particularly evident in F3.

In other developments, despite rumors of Andrea Kimi Antonelli securing an F1 seat and Ollie Bearman's FP1 appearance, neither has yet reached the podium. Instead, it was Joshua Dürksen, a fellow FRECA graduate, who made history on the rostrum.

What an exciting beginning to the forthcoming busy months in the feeder series. Here are my standout performers from Imola.

Formula 2

Isack Hadjar - A

Following a challenging start marked by retirements in the Middle East Feature Races, Isack Hadjar clinched his second consecutive Feature Race win with a triumph in Australia. Displaying remarkable control, the French driver continued his momentum into Imola, converting his P3 start into victory. Despite uncertainties surrounding Ollie Bearman's potential challenge, Hadjar's flawless performance underscores the strength of his Campos team, hinting at a possible future F2 championship contender.

Franco Colapinto - B+

Colapinto secured his first F2 win

What an extraordinary weekend for South American F2 racing, coinciding with the motorsport community commemorating Ayrton Senna. Alongside Paraguay's Joshua Dürksen's podium finish, Argentine racer Franco Colapinto ignited the celebrations with an impressive drive in the Sprint Race on Saturday.

Despite starting from P9 due to the reverse grid format, Colapinto executed a perfectly timed pass on Paul Aron to secure the victory. In the Feature Race, he climbed several positions to finish P5, earning valuable points. With momentum on his side, Colapinto eagerly anticipates the upcoming Monaco round, hungry for further success.

Joshua Dürksen - B

While Brazil's Gabriel Bortoleto's achievement of pole position and second place on Sunday is undoubtedly impressive, Joshua Dürksen's performance as a FRECA graduate cannot be overlooked. Despite qualifying in P5 for a team still navigating its restructuring phase, Dürksen's standout drive on Sunday, securing P3, showcased his consistency and talent. This remarkable feat not only highlighted Dürksen's prowess but also marked a historic moment with the Paraguayan flag gracing the F2 podium for the first time.

Formula 3

Ollie Goethe - A

Amidst considerable uncertainty, Goethe clinched his second F3 victory on Saturday, retaining the winner's trophy despite a contentious Virtual Safety Car overtake. The German-Danish racer showcased exceptional skill throughout the Imola weekend, securing two podium finishes from a P7 qualification. His consistent point-scoring performance in every race places him among the championship's top contenders. With the support of Red Bull and a formidable Campos team, Goethe is positioned as a strong title contender, as both driver and team demonstrate peak form.

Leonardo Fornaroli - A-

The Italian fans cheered Fornaroli

The newly crowned leader in Formula 3 appeared visibly disappointed on the podium following the Feature Race in front of his home crowd, and his frustration is understandable. Despite being arguably the fastest among all 30 drivers during Sunday's race, Fornaroli faced a sudden power drop from his car, causing him to lose the lead and forcing him to regain positions. However, this setback was beyond his control, and he should take pride in leading a remarkable Trident trio that provided Italy with ample reasons to cheer.

Sami Meguetounif - B+

The latest winner in F3 wasn't a name I anticipated featuring in my top three predictions heading into Imola, but the Marseille native showcased remarkable prowess on the track. His team's impressive 1-2-3 qualification warranted celebration, but his drive to P1 in the Feature Race, including a late-race overtake on Goethe, was truly exceptional. While Fornaroli's setback may have contributed to Meguetounif's victory, it's important to recognize the Frenchman's stellar performance on his standout Sunday.

Jim's 2024 Ongoing rankings

Maloney still leads F2

Zane Maloney secured another podium finish, although his first point-less Feature Race of 2024 has slightly narrowed his lead in the standings. Nevertheless, he maintains his top position in my rankings.

Fornaroli's ascent to the championship lead only solidifies his status as my top F3 driver. His impressive speed throughout the season has propelled him one position ahead of Paul Aron as the feeder series heads to Monaco.

1. Zane Maloney - F2 (Rodin)

2. Leonardo Fornaroli - F3 (Trident)

3. Paul Aron - F2 (Hitech)

4. Luke Browning - F3 (Hitech)

5. Isack Hadjar - F2 (Campos)

6. Arvid Lindblad - F3 (PREMA)

7. Dino Beganovic - F3 (PREMA)

8. Gabriele Mini - F3 (PREMA)

9. Dennis Hauger - F2 (MP Motorsport)

10. Oliver Goethe - F3 (Campos)

Source: gpfans

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