For the first time since July, Formula 3 returns to screens for the penultimate round of the season at the infamous Italian Grand Prix.
The venue, which previously hosted the season finale, now serves as a pivotal point in the Championship. Points and positions will be crucial, not just for the title contenders at the front of the field, as the championship is closer than ever.
Looking ahead to the weekend, all 30 drivers are incredibly familiar with the 5.793km ‘Temple of Speed,’ as it features on several Feeder Series calendars. The 11 turns and two DRS zones will test drivers throughout the weekend. Crucially, the grid faces a new challenge with an added DRS zone between turns 10 and 11. A corner that decided the 2024 F3 champion could see a lot more action over the weekend.
Additionally, this weekend features a different qualifying setup, typically reserved for the Monaco Grand Prix. Qualifying will instead take place over two groups, with the faster group making up the left-hand side of the grid.
Title charge heats up
As the Championship enters the pointy end of the season, the title charge intensifies. As it stands, only two drivers are in contention for the title, both of whom have been standout individuals across the season. Freddie Slater leads the charge, aiming to be the fourth TRIDENT driver in succession to claim the coveted F3 title. But Ugo Ugochukwu is hoping to break the TRIDENT streak and claim a title for Campos Racing.
Heading into the weekend, it’s Slater who has the momentum. The Briton arrives at Monza as the most recent race winner, securing his maiden victory in Budapest before the summer break. The win was pivotal in his title charge, as he overtook his rival for the first time this season, leading the championship by a narrow eight points. Ultimately, Slater will be looking to extend his lead to Ugochukwu behind, setting himself up for title glory in Madrid.
But one thing’s for certain: Ugochukwu will not lose this championship without a fight. The American has continually proved his talent and potential in this series, alongside his incredibly strong Campos team. The Spanish outfit is the only team to secure multiple race victories for all its drivers across the season. Alongside this, the 19-year-old set the fastest time in in-season testing late last month, providing him with a strong avenue ahead of the important weekend.
The title can not be decided in Monza, making every point essential in the penultimate round.
Whilst the title battle at the front of the field is the battle on everyone’s mind, the field behind is incredibly close. Further back, just 30 points separate Theophile Nael in third and Taito Kato in 12th. Setting the stage for an intense mid-field battle throughout the weekend.
Formula 3 Hometown heroes
This weekend, the Tifosi and Italian Motorsport fans will have drivers of their own in the rally behind in F3. Across the grid, three drivers will be coming home to race in front of the Italian fans.
Rodin’s Brando Badoer currently sits in the best position compared to his fellow Countrymen. The 19-year-old enjoyed a strong start to the season, securing victory in Monaco. With further podiums in Melbourne, Spa and Budapest. However, as the season entered the European circuits, he fell away from the title battle. Now Badoer finds himself a mere four points behind Nael in fifth. A home crowd boost could prove essential in his battle for the final championship podium spot.
Alongside him, Matteo De Palo and Nicola Lacorte will also race under the Italian flag this weekend. For both drivers, the season has been far from ideal, with several roadblocks throughout the year. De Palo, momentarily secured his first F3 victory at Silverstone, before he was later disqualified. Meanwhile, Lacorte sits 23rd with 6 points to his name. The pair will be aiming for an impressive performance in front of their home fans to end the season.
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