The Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy’s 21 year old Swede is about to discover the unusual Azerbaijan track for the first time and expectations are high on the back of the previous round in Monza.

Ever since Formula 1 first came to the Baku City Circuit back in 2016, drivers who have tackled its six kilometres through the centre of the capital city have been clearly divided into those who don’t like it and those who immediately got to grips with an unforgiving track layout. For Dino Beganovic it will be a new experience as tomorrow’s free practice session will be his first time driving here.

Positivity. The Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy student is on top form, after finishing in the top six in both Monza races, confirming that progress has been made and his performance especially in the Feature Race means there are high hopes for this weekend. “After the Monza Sprint Race, we made changes to the car and in the Feature Race our pace had improved, which makes me confident for Baku, given that the track has some similarities with Monza, starting with the very long final straight,” said Dino. “I will have a lot to learn about the track, but I always find tackling a new track, as was the case in Jeddah this year, interesting and stimulating.”

Prepared. “I’ve done some simulator sessions,” continued the Swede. “But we must wait until free practice to see how things will go. As was the case in Monza, I think once again it will be crucial to find the right compromise in terms of set-up between the twistier sections and the long straights. I hope I get into a rhythm right away to ensure getting a good grid position, which is vital if I want to aim high.” Including Baku, there are three of the 14 rounds remaining this season. After 21 races (11 Sprint and 10 Feature) on his debut year in this category, Beganovic is tenth in the standings on 70 points.

Programme. The Formula 2 action gets underway on Friday at 10.00 local time (8 CEST) with a 45 minute free practice session, followed by qualifying at 14.00 (12.00 CEST). On Saturday, the 21 lap Sprint Race starts at 14.15 (12.15 CEST) with the 29 lap Feature Race getting underway on Sunday at 11.00 (09.00) CEST.