It was 6 PM in Barcelona, and Mandalora was prepped for the qualifying activity. Both F2 and F1 teams were present at the circuit, creating an eerie tension among everyone. The Formula 2 teams had one hour for their qualifying session, while the Formula 1 teams had the rest of the night to use as they wished. Not all F1 teams were present, some were yet to arrive—only senior teams like Squadra Corse, Bueseno Velocità, and a few others occupied a more secluded area. They were either prepping their single-seaters and crews or simply there to cheer on and mingle with their juniors.
There were no fans, no spectators, no commentary, and no announcers. This was a private affair—a rare occurrence in the racing world—designed to allow teams to focus without the usual distractions.