F1 drivers are now 'obliged' to go through Formula 2

Sauber test driver Tatiana Calderon, who had her first taste of the team's Formula 1 car last week, believes that up and coming drivers are now "obliged" to go through the ranks of Formula 2 before making the career step up to F1.

Calderon, who is looking to move from GP3 to F2 next season, thinks the experience of F2 is now necessary in order to understand the rigours of the highest level, while commenting that F2 could suit her abilities.

“If you want to go to Formula One you now are obliged to do Formula Two as well,” she said.

“I’ve been always watching those races and to be honest they’re some of the best races, I would really like to have a go. I think it’s a car that could suit me with the pit stops.

“I’ve been struggling more with qualifying and I think in Formula Two you have a chance maybe if you don’t do that well in quali so hopefully that would be the case.”

Dreams DO come true! Very excited to drive the @SauberF1Team C37 @F1 car for the first time next week in Mexico! Thank you very much for making my dream a reality @escuderiatelmex and Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team for their trust! pic.twitter.com/9xaQAf2M8d — Tatiana Calderon (@TataCalde) October 26, 2018

Calderon admits that, although it is her desire to move into F2 as soon as possible, that nothing has been confirmed yet.

“We’re still waiting and organising but I would love to do Formula Two," the Colombian continued.

"To start testing after Abu Dhabi end of the season race would be amazing.

“We are putting everything together. The budget depends with which team you go [to]. There is quite a lot but our intention is to really go for Formula Two.”

MORE: McLaren and Williams failings 'confusing and disappointing' - Coulthard
MORE: Leclerc 'under pressure' up against Hamilton next year, believes Sauber's Vasseur