Chapter 33 - Future Tech F1

"We have a Sebastian Vettel at Red Bull taking pole position, while Lewis Hamilton is starting in second place for McLaren. The other Red Bull of Mark Webber will trail them in third position." David Crofty said from the commenter box.

Vince and his group listened to the closing remarks before bidding farewell to Mr. Mallya.

Randall would be racing in Formula 2 in an hour after their teams finished preparing.

[The kid's got talent if he only needs one more win to become eligible for a super license.] Vince thought as their group walked to the FIA meeting room.

An old french man with white flowing hair wearing a business suit was waiting inside.

Vince decided to leave the two security operators and felt safe enough with Price around.

Christian introduced Jean Todt to Vince and Price before sitting down around a meeting table.

"I've reviewed the specifications of the Freevalve system Koenigsegg Motors recently developed. With your assistance, of course, young Dalton." Mr. Todt stated with an air of class and a french accent.

"You can tell by the performance tests that Freevalve should be involved in the pinnacle of motorsport," Christian said proudly.

"I understand the gravity of your innovation in engine performance, but government policies are forcing Formula 1 to reduce emissions and manufacturing costs. As a result, Freevalve may be too expensive for our next formula update." Mr. Todt replied.

"Freevalve engines are 20% more fuel-efficient than a current formula one car, and Vince's Hive Mind manufacturing drones have significantly reduced the engine's manufacturing cost," Christian added.

"If Future Tech can bear some cost in implementing Freevalve in Mercedes', Ferrari's, and McLaren's engines, then this deal is most certainly possible." Jean Todt replied with an amiable smile.

[Engine manufacturing is the most expensive expense in Formula 1 cars. The FIA is taking full advantage of my involvement in this deal.] Vince thought.

The meeting was quick and done in 10 minutes. Jean Todt was forthcoming and wasted no time.

Mallya had called David to negotiate the deal, and David sent him a contract prepared beforehand.

David arrived at COTA within the hour to sign the deal with his power of attorney. He was fully prepared because Vince discussed his interest in purchasing a team with him last weekend.

The Formula 2 race was about to start in 15 minutes, and Randall was preparing himself, but he heard some commotion around the paddock.

"Good day to all our viewers watching the Formula 2 feature race here at Austin, Texas. We have several young drivers racing today on the cusp of winning the F2 championship: Luciano Bacheta, Matheo Tusher, and Randall Stevens, a local here at Austin." David Croft said in his British accent as he started the broadcast.

Martin Brundle and David Croft were talking about the upcoming race. David interjected Martin's monologue after receiving a note from the Sky F1 staff.

"I've just received notice of a new owner in Formula 1, Martin. The local fans will love this news." Crofty said mysteriously.

"Alright. Tell us before I lose my patience." Martin replied jokingly.

"The young Austinian, Vince Dalton had purchased Sahara Force India for $250 million. So, Martin, what do you think about this deal?" Crofty asked.

"Firstly, both seats in the team are now in limbo. It will affect the driver's market for next season. Secondly, rumors of a new engine proposal from Koenigsegg and Future Tech will significantly impact the entire formula." Martin replied.

Regular Formula 2 viewers started posting about the news online. Subreddits like r/Formula 1 and r/AutoRacing were filled with an excited buzz while sports news outlets were preparing their content to release.

Around twenty Formula 2 cars lined up at the main straight after doing their formation lap.

Randall started in third and had a good view of the first steep left turn while revving his engine in idle.

Five red lights started to blink, and the race commenced.

Randall had a great start and went left, going side by side with Luciano.

Luciano was brave trying to take the outside racing line on the breaks, but he misjudged his braking point.

He narrowly missed Matheo, who started in second place and lost two positions.

Randall took the lead by taking the inside racing line and drove through the famous COTA esses in blistering speed.

Matheo fought hard to keep up but lost the tread on his tires too soon and pitted for new tires early.

Luciano tried to go for the long strategy and stayed out and waited for Randall to pit.

The strategy didn't work out as Randall reentered the race far in front after pitting.

Randall won the race with 3 seconds to spare and ultimately won the championship at the last Formula 2 race of the season.

"What a fantastic performance from our young drivers. Congratulations to Randal Stevens for winning the race and the championship!" Crofty declared through his microphone.

Martin walked down towards the pitlane to do the winner's interview.

"Salutations to you, young Stevens. How does it feel to be the Formula 2 champion for this season." Martin asked.

"I feel amazing! I want to thank my family, the team, and our sponsors who made this all possible. Austin, make some noise!" Randall shouted to the mic.

The crowd started cheering for their town hero for the day.

"What does this win mean for your prospects in Formula 1? Top teams like Ferrari or McLaren will want a young and hungry driver like yourself." Martin asked.

"I'd already made my decision last week. Future Tech F1 will be my new home next season." Randall replied proudly.

"I didn't expect that answer. We've only known about the acquisition since before the race began." Martin said curiously.

"Vince promised me the seat last week as long as I won this race," Randall replied.

"Fair enough. Congratulations, and I'll be looking forward to seeing you in Formula 1 next year." Martin replied before ending the interview.

[The kid is quick, alright.] Vince thought after watching the race.

Stats last time checked:

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$74.5 Billion in Future Tech

8350+ employees (Future Studios, Hive Mind AI, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1)

Five company collaborators

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings