The second tier of the FIA single-seater pyramid is the final stepping stone to the pinnacle of motor sport - the launchpad from which F2 alumni Charles Leclerc, George Russell, Lando Norris and Alexander Albon achieved immediate F1 race seats this season. Their progression is fuel for the ambitions of the 2019 field, which is an exciting mix of experienced drivers and eight promising rookies.

In the first of two pre-season tests, at Jerez de la Frontera, Mick Schumacher threw down the gauntlet in readiness for his F2 debut, setting the fastest lap time of the three days. At the second test, held at Barcelona, Dutchman Nick De Vries made his own statement of intent, securing the fastest time overall. However, the combination of a competitive grid line-up eager to make an immediate impression and the challenges posed by the 5.412 km Bahrain International Circuit looks set to deliver an exciting and unpredictable curtain-raiser to the new season.

One driver who is sure to make history this weekend is FIA Women In Motorsport ambassador Tatiana Calderon, who becomes the first woman to race in F2. The Colombian makes the step up from the third tier of the pyramid, a further testament to the effectiveness of the now clearly defined pathway to the top echelon of the sport.

The action gets underway on Friday 29 March, with the practice session and qualifying, followed by Race 1 on Saturday and Race 2 on Sunday.