The Argentine driver will compete in the category prior to Formula 1 with a Dutch team that has developed drivers such as Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc
Meanwhile, Brad Joyce, team principal, highlighted the Argentine's technical and competitive profile: "We're very happy to welcome Nico. His experience in endurance racing, including his success at Le Mans, speaks for itself. Entering Formula 2 will be a new challenge, but with his talent and technical understanding we're confident he'll adapt quickly," he stated.
Founded in 1975 by Frits van Amersfoort, the Dutch team has a long tradition of developing young talents who later reached Formula 1. Jos and Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, Mick Schumacher, Kevin Magnussen, and Liam Lawson are some of the names who passed through the team before reaching the elite of world motorsport.
With his arrival, Varrone will become the first Argentine on the F2 grid after Colapinto's stint, who debuted in 2024. His addition gives the country hope for greater presence in Formula 1 in the future.
Despite the rumors linking him to a possible move to Formula 1 as a development driver, Nicolás Varrone will be a new Formula 2 driver in 2026, the direct stepping stone to the top category where Franco Colapinto is currently racing. The native of Ingeniero Maschwitz was confirmed by Van Amersfoort Racing (VAR) for the upcoming season.
"Van Amersfoort Racing is proud to announce its first FIA Formula 2 driver for 2026, Nicolás Varrone. The Argentine driver has a long track record in endurance racing, with winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in LMGTE Am in 2023 being one of the highlights. VAR is happy to have Nico join the team and looks forward to the 2026 season," the Dutch team officially announced.
Varrone, born in Ingeniero Maschwitz, celebrated the news enthusiastically: "I'm very excited to join Van Amersfoort Racing for the 2026 F2 season. It's a very professional team, with a lot of history and success. I can't wait to get behind the wheel and start working with them. I'm grateful to everyone who has believed in me all these years," he said.
