1. Théo Pourchaire
French representation in F1 was at an all time high last year. Applying to continue that streak is Theo Pourchaire. This 17 year old has already accomplished more than many drivers do in their whole careers. He's the FDAC F4 champion, and finished as vice-champion of F3 last year. Unlike the next few entries, Pourchaire actually has a smattering of F2 experience. 2020 brought four f2 starts. He was quoted as saying that experience gave him an advantage over his fellow F3 graduates. His signature stays on the dotted line for Sauber going forward. While all of us are looking in the direction of Illot and Schwartzman, Sauber very well could be eying a move in 2 years or beyond.
2. Oscar Piastri
The reigning F3 Champ. Now driving for the reigning F2 champs. Is it written in the stars? Australian Oscar Piastri will certainly be hoping so. His debut season saw a lucky late charge over rival Logan Sargeant grant him the title. This notoriety combined with his obvious pace and substantial financial backing have made him the newest F2 candidate with a real chance of reaching F1-level. The obstacle he has to jump over is: his teammate. Robert Schwartzman is more experienced and every bit as talented. If it's a two way battle for the title, watch this space.
3. Liam Lawson
The Re Bull Junior Team really is like an assembly line of talent. Lawson's an outspoken Kiwi who also finished 5th in F3 last season. His resume looks longer than a text from Helmut Marko, and it all shows he's not afraid to try different styles of motorsport. His CV includes Road to Indy, DTM, the Toyota racing series and more. Funny enough, he'll be paired alongside a familiar face in DTM for next year. Alex Albon will be his partner. Watch this space next season. If Lawson beats Albon, you can be dead sure he'll be in line for a seat after Vips. Oh and did we mention he's also in F2 for next season? (Yes you can drive both concurrently apparently)
4. Jüri Vips
Before Yuki Tsunoda, there was Jüri Vips. The original youngster tipped to eventually partner Verstappen at Red Bull, Vips has experienced somewhat of a stagnation in his career. While the Estonian's ascent through the junior formulas was prolific, he somewhat stalled when getting into bigger cars. His first few races in F3 saw some worrying sub-15th place finishes. But the following season he placed right behind the 3 Premas (who of course dominated the teams standings). F2 has been a bigger puzzle. 8 races and 16 points later Vips misfired on his long awaited entry into the sport. 2021 brings a new car and a new challenge with it. Hopefully, with the full strength of his team behind him, he can conjure up that impressive spirit and make it back on the track to F1.
5. Felipe Drugovich
Last season's most improved. vice-champion Callum Illot paid him a very sweet comment in the interview room last season. Drugovich's talent is winning the things he's supposed to win. Of the full season's hes competed in the last three years, he's won Euroformula, Spanish F3, and MRF Formula 2000. When the field is clear he takes advantage. A ninth place finish blew away everyone's expectations least year. F2 is a cruel beast, and if he can't improve he's likely done. Watch him. Root for him. He's one of the more likeable drivers of the 2021 grid.
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