Luke Browning delivered a commanding performance in Free Practice at the 2024 Hungarian GP, setting the fastest time as F2 returned for Round 10 of the 2025 season. The Hitech TGR driver posted a 1:30.609 on his final flying lap—just as the chequered flag fell—capping a strong session in which he built steadily throughout.
With just five rounds remaining in a highly competitive season, every point and performance now carries added weight. Browning entered the Budapest weekend sitting fifth in the standings on 113 points, just 12 behind championship leader Leonardo Fornaroli. On a circuit as tight and technical as the Hungaroring—where overtaking is notoriously difficult—laying a strong foundation in Free Practice could prove vital.
The British driver’s approach to the session was deliberate and composed. He steadily increased his pace over the 45-minute outing, dialled in the balance of his car, and executed when it mattered most—delivering a standout lap as the session closed.
Building momentum and delivering at the right time
Browning was upbeat after stepping out of the car and credited the structured run plan and the team’s preparation for the strong performance. His remarks reflected the confidence growing within both driver and team as the final phase of the season approaches.
“It was a good session. We built up throughout the session, which was nice. It was really rewarding out there, to push to the limit towards the end of the session. “There will be a lot of changes from FP to Qualifying, but I am really positive with the car we have got this weekend and how I am driving to have a good result. So thanks to the team, and I will keep my head down and keep on working on what I can.”
While many drivers posted their best laps early in the session, Browning’s ability to continue improving in the closing minutes pointed to a car setup and tyre strategy that worked in his favour.
Late-session gains reflect car strength
Rather than targeting an early headline time, Browning and Hitech TGR focused on a progressive run plan. The Briton’s best time came in the final moments of F2 Free Practice at the 2025 Hungarian GP—a lap that not only topped the timesheets but also highlighted how well the car managed its tyres over a longer stint.
“The grip was still there for me to improve on the last lap, so it’s probably more down to car setup than driving, being brutally honest. We had a good car down out there today, and when you have a good car you look after the tyres, so I think that’s what happened.”
His honest assessment reinforced the growing synergy between driver and team. With setup decisions playing a crucial role at a circuit like Budapest, this late-session performance gave Hitech valuable data ahead of F2 Qualifying.
Confidence high heading into Qualifying
While Free Practice does not deliver points, it sets the tone for the weekend. For Browning, the positive session means more than just a fastest lap—it helps him understand how the car will behave when conditions shift, particularly with a change in compound from Mediums to Softs expected in F2 Qualifying at the 2025 Hungarian GP.
“When you have a positive FP like that, it puts you in a good place to be able to predict where the balance will be during Qualifying,” said Browning. “So my confidence is in a good place, we are working well together. I just have to keep on focusing on things that are in my control, and we will see where we end up.”
Browning has had no shortage of pace throughout 2025, but Qualifying has been a sticking point. Without a pole position to his name, Budapest presents an important opportunity to finally capitalise on a strong Friday.
Though winless, Browning has remained a persistent threat throughout the campaign. With seven podiums—more than any other driver this season—he has demonstrated remarkable consistency. That form has kept him in championship contention even as others have delivered race wins. His 113 points place him within striking distance of the top of the standings. However, to truly mount a title challenge over the final five rounds, the Hitech driver knows a breakthrough is needed.
Budapest, where track position is everything, could be the turning point. If he can convert a strong Qualifying into a front-row start, the chance to fight for victory on Sunday becomes significantly more realistic.
Prepared for every scenario
Complicating the picture is the possibility of rain. Forecasts for Qualifying indicate unsettled conditions, which could shuffle the deck. For Browning, though, it’s just another variable—and one he’s ready for.
“We are in a good place going into Qualifying,” added Browning. “We might have a bit of rain, so I am ready for any possibilities, no matter what gets thrown at us.”
Whether conditions remain dry or become unpredictable, Browning’s performance in Free Practice has laid a solid foundation to adapt quickly and stay competitive.
With four more rounds to follow after Budapest—including Zandvoort, Monza, Baku and Abu Dhabi—the title fight remains wide open. But with the field as tight as it is, any advantage now can compound into lasting momentum. For Browning, F2 Free Practice at the 2025 Hungarian GP was not just about a fast lap. It was a statement that he and Hitech TGR are ready to take the fight to the front—not just on a Friday afternoon, but when the points are on offer.
