Formula 3 has announced a new seven-figure prize initiative: from 2025, the top five drivers in the F3 championship will share a 1 million euro fund — designed to ease one of the biggest hurdles in junior single-seaters, the step up to Formula 2.
How the prize will be split
- Champion: €300,000
- 2nd place: €250,000
- 3rd place: €200,000
- 4th place: €150,000
- 5th place: €100,000
There’s a crucial condition: the financial award is released only if the driver is promoted to F2. If not, the prize moves down the order to the next eligible driver(s) based on the standings. The fund sits alongside the existing Pirelli €300,000 prize for the F3 champion.
Why it matters
Moving from F3 to F2 is a major financial leap, often decisive in a young driver’s career. By targeting support at those who make the step, the fund aligns resources with progression and helps keep talent on the ladder to F1.
Backed by F1 leadership
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali frames the move as a vital boost to the pyramid system, reinforcing F3 as a training ground for the technical, physical and mental demands of the higher categories. F3 CEO Bruno Michel underlines the goal: reward success, enable progression, and ensure the brightest prospects can take the final step toward the pinnacle.
Impact on the junior ecosystem
Expect the new incentives to sharpen competition at the front of F3 and unlock opportunities for standout performers who might otherwise stall for budgetary reasons. It’s a pragmatic, targeted investment in the sport’s future.
