Pepe Marti Wins Formula 2 Abu Dhabi Sprint

Pepe Marti claimed victory in the Abu Dhabi Formula 2 sprint race, becoming the 18th winner of the season, after a remarkable start that propelled him from fourth to first by Turn 1. Gabriel Bortoleto finished second, extending his championship lead to 5.5 points over Isack Hadjar, who finished sixth, while Paul Aron came in third, mathematically eliminating himself from title contention. The race featured a chaotic opening lap with multiple incidents, including contact between Kush Maini and Hadjar, and a retirement for pole sitter Victor Martins. Bortoleto's impressive drive from ninth to second included significant overtaking maneuvers, solidifying his lead in the standings with one race remaining. The final race will see Bortoleto aiming to fend off Hadjar, who has a slim chance of overtaking him if he wins and Bortoleto finishes second. The absence of Andrea Kimi Antonelli due to illness created an opportunity for other racers, but it was Marti's day as he led every lap without challenge.