While Formula 1 dominated the headlines in the Principality, the next generation of motorsport talent also delivered a thrilling weekend around the streets of Monte-Carlo as Formula 2 and Formula 3 staged their annual Monaco showcase.
In Formula 2, the weekend belonged to Bulgarian rising star Nikola Tsolov. After a strong qualifying performance, the Campos Racing driver secured victory in Sunday’s Feature Race, claiming his third win of the 2026 season and strengthening his position among the championship contenders. Tsolov capitalised on late drama involving pole-sitter Rafael Câmara to seize the lead and expertly controlled the closing laps to take the chequered flag ahead of Alexander Dunne and Dino Beganovic.
The Formula 2 Sprint Race had produced a different winner on Saturday, with Mexico’s Noel León leading from lights to flag. The Campos Racing rookie resisted sustained pressure from Roman Bilinski throughout the race to secure his second Sprint victory of the campaign on the iconic street circuit. Championship leader Gabriele Minì completed the podium in third.
Monaco once again highlighted the importance of qualifying in Formula 2, where overtaking opportunities remain scarce. Several strategic battles unfolded during the Feature Race, but Tsolov’s decisive move in the closing stages ultimately proved the defining moment of the weekend.
Formula 3 also provided plenty of excitement. French driver Théophile Naël impressed during qualifying to secure pole position for the Feature Race, underlining his credentials as one of the category’s brightest young prospects.
However, it was Brando Badoer who emerged victorious in Sunday’s Feature Race. The Rodin Motorsport driver delivered a composed performance around the unforgiving Monaco circuit to secure one of the most prestigious victories available in junior single-seater racing. His triumph added another memorable chapter to a weekend that showcased the depth of talent climbing the motorsport ladder.
With packed grandstands and the unique challenge of Monaco’s narrow streets providing the backdrop, both championships once again demonstrated why the Principality remains one of the most important proving grounds for future Formula 1 stars. As several drivers continued to strengthen their championship campaigns, the 2026 Monaco weekend may ultimately be remembered as a key stepping stone in the careers of motorsport’s next generation.
