When AIX Racing’s Emerson Fittipaldi Jr. crossed the line in F2’s Madrid to score his first podium, it was easy to make out just why he was delighted. For any rookie coming into the championship, that first podium finish is always a special moment, and can open the floodgates to a series of big results following suit.

Typically, after competing in a regional series championship, drivers progress to Formula 3, further developing their race craft and physicality before stepping up to Formula 2. However, an 18-year-old hopeful is taking a different route, following an unusual pathway. Emerson Fittipaldi Jr. has made the courageous leap from Eurocup-3 to Formula 2 for the 2026 season.