Nikola Tsolov, F2 leader after Melbourne: "This is my greatest victory"

The season is still long in Formula 2But already, the first trends are emerging. In the feeder series for the premier class, the two favorites are clearly identified, as Rafael Câmara (Invicta) and Nikola Tsolov (Campos) have lived up to expectations despite being among the favorites before the start of the weekend in Melbourne. Both are rookies coming from the grid of Formula 3 In 2025, they had already battled it out last year for the title.

"I think we're a good generation, that's for sure," Nikola Tsolov aptly pointed outI never doubted I'd share a podium with Rafa, especially since both teams were fighting for the title last year. I was also very impressed to see Laurens on the podium; I'm really happy for him. I hope it continues like this and that we continue our battle with Rafa for the championship like last year, because it was exciting. »

After making numerous mistakes and suffering bad luck in the Sprint (notably being hit by Colton Herta), the Bulgarian Lion found his rhythm in the main race. More precise and decisive, he capitalized on the collision between the two Rodin drivers ahead of him in the early laps (Martinius Stenshorne and Alex Dunne), before making a sharp overtake on Nicolas Varrone, who had briefly led the race.

Tsolov is already aiming for the title but remains realistic.

"I must say that I never doubted a victory this year," Junior acknowledged Red Bull. I knew it would eventually happen thanks to all the hard work I'd put in, but I also knew I'd worked so hard for this moment, and harder than anyone else for this particular round, because historically, it hasn't gone my way.

Forced to retire in 2025 while competing in Formula 3, Nikola Tsolov finished 11th in 2024, and 21st the previous year. Returning to winning ways, having failed to secure the title after three unsuccessful attempts in the junior category, he now aims for greater consistency in his results, on the verge of... Formula 1. “I am confident, but at the same time I remain humble because this championship is full of ups and downs,” he analyzed. I know there will be bad days, and I know there will be good days. I'm just going to try to stay as consistent as possible throughout the year. And I think that's what will allow us to win the championship.

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While some top drivers, such as the duo formed in the Rodin garage, have yet to score significant points in this first round, it seems the next 13 races will be fiercely contested. At a completely different pace than in 2025, Formula 2 has kicked off with a bang and shows no signs of slowing down. The next race is in Bahrain, from April 10th to 12th. In case of cancellation, the 22 drivers on the grid will meet again from June 4th to 7th on the legendary Monaco circuit.