Invicta Racing begins European run of races with focus on progression
Following a lengthy gap between rounds, Invicta Racing is set for a rapid run of races across Europe as the FIA Formula 2 season heats up.
Since Melbourne in March, the team has been testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and have been focusing on learning more about the Dallara F2 2024 to maximise its potential.
Imola returns to the calendar after a year out due to the devastating floods which affected the Emilia Romagna region, and 2022 is the team’s sole year of F2 experience at the Italian venue. The tight, twisty 4.909-kilometre circuit is difficult to overtake on but its nature means that Safety Car appearances can be likely.
With just one DRS zone, albeit lengthy, track position and strategy are absolutely crucial. Being caught out by the timing of Safety Cars – Virtual or otherwise – can totally ruin a race.
The Emilia Romagna venue holds a special place for F2. It’s where its predecessor GP2 Series held its first race way back in 2005, before returning to the calendar for 2022.
Track notes
The opening pair of chicanes are very tricky. High kerbs and gravel are there to catch drivers out, and a lot of time can be lost early in the lap.
As the drivers approach the middle of the lap, the quick corners of Piratella and Acque Minerale are also a challenge to get right – particularly the second part of Acque Minerale where drivers can easily spin off.
The remainder of the lap also incorporates difficult elements. New gravel on the exit of Variante Alta adds an extra layer of peril for drivers, while the two Rivazza corners which conclude the lap are tighter than they appear, and the downhill braking for the first part can easily catch drivers out.
Team formbook
Gabriel is a podium finisher in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine here, while Kush took a top-five finish in the FIA Formula 3 Feature Race back in 2022.
The team qualified third in its only F2 appearance at the circuit and took a brace of podiums in Auto GP back in 2014.
Memorable moment
2022’s Feature Race was dramatic from start to finish. Roy Nissany rocketed from sixth to first at the start of the race, only to crash out from the lead, while 2023 F2 champion Théo Pourchaire eventually took the win.
Team Principal Andy Roche:
It feels like a bit of a refresh as we head to Imola for the start of the European part of the season. We are raring to go after this break. We learned a lot in testing which we will be looking to make the most of in the coming rounds. Looking ahead to this weekend, there will be a focus on qualifying well and ensuring that our strategy is spot on around this very twisty circuit.
All local times CEST (UTC +2). Follow Invicta Racing for updates throughout the weekend.
Live timing for all sessions can be found here.
