Editing Formula Junior (section)

== History ==

Formula Junior was introduced in [[1958]] by Count Giovanni "Johnny" [[Giovanni Lurani|Lurani]] as a standardized, cost-effective class intended to prepare young drivers for professional competition. The regulations required the use of production-based components, with engine capacities limited to 1,100 cc for cars weighing 400 kg and 1,000 cc for those at 360 kg. Engine blocks, cylinder heads, gearboxes, and brake systems had to originate from production vehicles, and enhancements such as twin overhead camshafts or limited-slip differentials were prohibited.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History |url=https://formulajunior.com/ |website=Formula Junior Historic Racing Association |access-date=2025-04-22}}</ref>

The first Formula Junior race was held at [[Autodromo Nazionale Monza]] on April 25, 1958. Italian driver Roberto Lippi won the event in a front-engined Stanguellini, which utilized a Fiat 1100 engine—then the most common choice among Italian constructors due to its widespread availability and reliability.<ref>{{Cite web |title=April 25, 1958: The First Formula Junior Race |url=https://velocetoday.com/april-25-1958-the-first-formula-junior-race/ |website=VeloceToday |access-date=2025-04-22}}</ref>

The formula gained rapid popularity across [[Europe]] and the [[United States]]. Early British involvement included constructors such as Elva, Gemini, and Lola, who initially developed front-engined designs. However, by the early 1960s, rear-engined layouts—such as those employed in the [[Lotus 18]] and [[Cooper T56]]—became the standard, offering superior weight distribution and handling characteristics.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Trend of Formula Junior |url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/archive/article/april-1963/30/the-trend-of-formula-junior/ |website=Motorsport Magazine |date=April 1963 |access-date=2025-04-22}}</ref>

As the formula evolved, the cost of development increased, leading to a divide between its intended accessibility and its growing competitiveness. Serving both as an introductory series and as the highest-level international single-seater category below Formula One, Formula Junior was ultimately phased out after the 1963 season. In [[1964]], it was replaced by two distinct categories: [[Formula Two]], targeting professional drivers with purpose-built engines, and [[Formula Three]], which preserved the original intent of providing a pathway for emerging talent.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History |url=https://fjhna.com/History.cfm |website=Formula Junior Historics North America |access-date=2025-04-22}}</ref>

Notable alumni of Formula Junior include future [[Formula One]] World Champions such as [[Jim Clark]], [[John Surtees]], and [[Denny Hulme]].