The third round of the British F4 Championship takes place this weekend at Snetterton – a track that holds special significance for Virtuosi Racing, the team of Hungarian driver Martin Molnár. The young talent is hoping to deliver another strong performance at what is considered one of the most technically demanding circuits on the calendar.
The British F4 Championship continues at the Snetterton Circuit, located in Norfolk, East England – just a 15-minute drive from Virtuosi Racing’s headquarters. This effectively makes it a ‘home round’ for the team, adding extra importance to the event for everyone involved. Sixteen-year-old Martin Molnár heads into the weekend fourth in the drivers’ standings, following a podium finish at the season opener in Donington and two more at Silverstone.
Like many UK racetracks, Snetterton was originally a World War II airfield, decommissioned by the Royal Air Force after 1948. The first motor race was held there in October 1951, and over the decades, the venue has become one of the jewels of British motorsport. Despite its long straights and high-speed corners, it has long been regarded as a relatively safe circuit due to its expansive run-off areas.
Snetterton hosted the UK’s first-ever 24-hour race and was also home to the country’s first racing school, established in the late 1950s. The track layout has seen several changes over the years, with a major redevelopment completed in 2011. Today, the circuit offers three different configurations, with the longest – the 300 layout – being used for events such as the British Touring Car Championship and the British F4 series.
“After the Silverstone weekend, I spent a week at home, attended school, and kept up with my training,” Martin said. “Then I headed back to the UK for a test session at Knockhill. It went well, and I think we’ll be competitive there again this year – but that’s for another time. As for Snetterton, it’s arguably the most technical circuit on the calendar. It’s not the most enjoyable track to drive, and it’s also quite bumpy and worn, so it won’t be an easy weekend for any of us. Since last year’s races, I’ve done a day of testing here, so my data and feel for the circuit are still quite fresh.”
According to Tamás Pál Kiss, sporting director of Motorsport Talent Management (MOTAM), the proximity of Virtuosi Racing’s base will offer a distinct advantage for the team. “It makes operations more efficient. The team members benefit from the comfort of a familiar environment and less travel stress. That can give them an extra boost – something they don’t get at away rounds. People often think being close to home might distract the team, but it’s actually the opposite. These guys spend a huge amount of time on the road – just for testing alone there are around 25 days, and often that means two full travel days per test. Being at home can be re-energizing.”
While Martin won’t get to enjoy the comforts of home this weekend, he’s focused on delivering results for the team at their special round. “It’s a big weekend for them, and that naturally gives everyone some extra motivation. Of course, I want to perform at my best everywhere, but if I can succeed here, it will be a real boost for the team. As always, qualifying will be crucial – overtaking here isn’t easy because of how narrow the track is,” said the Hungarian driver.
As for what will be decisive not just this weekend but throughout the season, Tamás Pál Kiss added:
“Martin’s speed is not in question – he’s already proven he belongs in the front of the field both in pace and driving technique. The key this year will be managing the pressure. This is now a results-focused season, which brings a different kind of mental challenge. Once you’ve established yourself at the front, everyone expects results – that pressure is very different from what he’s faced before. Managing that will be the key this year. But Martin is also growing more mature, both on and off the track. Based on the first two rounds, the deciding factor will be how quickly he can bounce back when things don’t go to plan and how well he can mentally reset and move on.”
The schedule of the Snetterton weekend (GMT+1):
Saturday
10.55 – 11.20: Qualifying
14.35 – 14.55: Race 1
Sunday
10.35 – 10.55: Race 2
16.00 – 16.25: Race 3