F2: Bearman secures Spa pole in race against the rain

There was no time to waste in Formula 2’s qualifying session around Spa, as Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman claimed the third pole position of his rookie season before heavy rain fell on the track.

With one shot at setting a lap, PREMA Racing led the field out of the pits and made the most of their track position to secure their first qualifying one-two of the season.

Championship leader Frederik Vesti claimed a front row start alongside Bearman, as ART Grand Prix’s Victor Martins achieved his fourth consecutive top-three result.

With a drying track and another downpour forecast, the field quickly headed out but couldn’t set a timed lap as Joshua Mason brought out the red flags in the opening three minutes, finding the gravel trap at Turn 9.

Once green flag conditions resumed, Vesti led the field out and was advised to complete as many laps as possible as dark clouds loomed. Sticking firmly to the dry line, he set a 2m 06.199s and in process, carved out a path for team mate Bearman behind.

Taking full advantage, the Briton stormed 0.463s clear, posting a 2m 05.736s as rain began to fall heavily in Sector 3. Those behind were left with little hope of beating Bearman's lap as the expected downpour arrived, leaving the field to wait out the final 20 minutes in the pits.

Zane Maloney’s sole effort was good enough for fourth ahead of Theo Pourchaire and Maloney’s fellow Red Bull junior Dennis Hauger. Ralph Boschung claimed seventh, ahead of Enzo Fittipaldi and Richard Verschoor.

Jehan Daruvala qualified in 10th, earning him the reverse grid pole for Saturday’s Sprint Race, which gets under way at 1345 local time. For a full report, visit the official Formula 2 website.