FORMULA 2’s 10TH SEASON: Alex Albon on his favourite moments and advice to the next generation

As we continue to celebrate Formula 2’s 10th anniversary season, we are speaking to our alumni now in Formula 1 to reflect on their time in the Championship.

Alex Albon was one of the first drivers to race in F2, joining the paddock for the first campaign in 2017 before returning for a title-contending year in 2018.

Ultimately, the current Williams F1 driver finished third in the Standings – behind George Russell and Lando Norris – finishing with eight podiums, four victories, and three pole positions that came in consecutive rounds in Baku, Barcelona, and Monte Carlo.

Recently we caught up with Albon to look back on his time in the Championship and to talk about life racing in the top tier against so many former Formula 2 drivers.

Albon competed in two seasons of FIA Formula 2 back in 2017 and 2018

HOW FORMULA 2 PREPARED HIM FOR THE NEXT STEP

“In many ways F2 helped me get up to speed as we were going to the same tracks as F1 and using similar tyres. There was less downforce but there was a similar driving style.

“Also, being exposed to the Formula 1 paddock and being in front of the F1 teams and Team Principals who ultimately choose which drivers make it to F1.”

FAVOURITE OFF-TRACK MEMORY

“My favourite off-track memory was after Abu Dhabi knowing that Lando and George both had seats in F1 and we knew that we were all going into F1 together. We are obviously close friends and all grew up together, so it was like we all made it at the same time.”

The Thai driver spoke of how much he is enjoying racing against friends like George Russell in F1

ON COMPETING AGAINST RUSSELL, NORRIS AND MANY OTHER F2 ALUMNI

“Almost all the drivers on the current F1 grid have driven a F2 car at some point before, so it feels like a family inside the paddock.

“We grew up together and in some ways it was less intimidating moving from F2 to F1 as it is the same people that I raced against when I was eight years old and known the majority of my life.”

ADVICE FOR THE 2026 DRIVERS

“If you are already in F2 then you’ve already done well. My advice would be to stay focused on yourself and your own driving, and don’t limit your options too early on.

“Focus on understanding how the cars work on a technical level and how to provide useful feedback.”

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