Rodin Motorsport dominates Baku Qualifying 1 as Alex Dunne claims pole
The expanded weekend format in Baku has already delivered high-stakes drama, as Alex Dunne secured pole position for the first Formula 2 Feature Race. In a session split into two 20-minute windows, the Rodin Motorsport driver demonstrated exceptional pace to lead a teammate one-two, setting the stage for an intense Friday.
Dunne Claims Pole in Split-Session Format
The session faced an initial delay due to circuit repairs at the demanding Turn 15, heightening the tension before the drivers finally took to the track. With only 20 minutes on the clock, the pressure was immediate, leaving little room for error as drivers fought to optimize their lap times.
Alex Dunne established himself as the man to beat early on, posting a commanding 1:55.383. As the session progressed, the importance of the slipstream became evident. Dunne's Rodin Motorsport teammate, Martinius Stenshorne, managed to climb to second place following a crucial tow from Gabriele Minì. Completing the top three was Noel León of Campos Racing, who capitalized on the intense racing to secure third.
The expanded weekend format in Baku has clearly increased the tactical complexity, forcing drivers to nail their timing to secure optimal grid positions for both upcoming races.
Championship Contenders Face Early Challenges
While the Rodin duo celebrated, the championship heavyweights faced a more difficult outing. Rafael Câmara, a key title contender, managed to ascend to fifth place after utilizing a timely slipstream from teammate Joshua Dürksen. However, championship leader Nikola Tsolov struggled to find the necessary rhythm, ultimately rounding out the top 10 in tenth.
The midfield was equally competitive, with Kush Maini (ART Grand Prix) and Rafael Câmara (Invicta Racing) securing fourth and fifth respectively. PREMA Racing showed significant strength with Mari Boya and Sebastián Montoya placing themselves sixth and seventh.
The session was not without its drama; several drivers, including Dunne and Bilinski, suffered lock-ups at Turn 1, highlighting the unforgiving nature of the Baku street circuit.
Qualifying 1 Classification
- Alex Dunne (Rodin Motorsport)
- Martinius Stenshorne (Rodin Motorsport)
- Noel León (Campos Racing)
- Kush Maini (ART Grand Prix)
- Rafael Câmara (Invicta Racing)
- Mari Boya (PREMA Racing)
- Sebastián Montoya (PREMA Racing)
- Dino Beganovic (DAMS)
- Laurens van Hoepen (Trident)
- Nikola Tsolov (Campos Racing)
Simone Scanu
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.