The opening ceremony and welcoming speech took place from 8:00 PM to 8:40 PM, where the FIA President and two other high-ranking officials took the stage to welcome the attendees.
After that, a short montage video showcased the highlights of the season across all racing divisions. These highlights included spectacular overtakes and the most lethal crashes.
Luca's crash in Riyadh was displayed, and he found it amusing. Even Max's crash in Barcelona and the most recent one in Le Castellet were highlighted, as if to haunt him further, reminding him of what could've been the races he needed to win in order to top the Standings forever.
Most of the clips were sourced from the F1 season, showcasing a professional display of formula racing and a huge difference in the efficiency of their cars.
After that came the dinner service. A great multi-course meal was served to everyone as a certain lady on stage performed a somber live melody.
Just like at the farewell event in France, Sophia complained that she couldn't eat any more because of how tightly her dress cinched around her torso.
This left her with nothing to do, as pulling out her phone during dinner was out of the question. With no other way to pass the time, she resorted to pestering Luca, repeatedly asking about the notable figures in attendance.
It seemed she hadn't been listening earlier because Luca had to explain—again—that F1 champion Marcellus Rodnick and his family were the ones seated at the table beside them in the front row. As for the others, he had no idea who they were.
Gesturing was difficult in such a formal setting, especially with someone like Sophia, who never took caution in how openly she looked around.
Still, Luca told her that Max was in the building, seated in the third row with his father and mother. So were Miles, Aaronson, Derstappen, Kristensen, and the rest, along with their respective team principals. They were all going to see him get awarded today.
Every single F1 driver was present too. There were so many of them—and so many who looked alike—that Luca lost count of those who weren't the major names.
Beyond those he had already mentioned, he didn't recognize anyone else in the dim lighting. After all, this was the pinnacle of motorsport, and in a room , the sport wasn't just about the drivers. It was about power, influence, and the people who controlled the future of racing.
At 9:30 PM, the dinner service was over, and the main highlight of the night began. It was time for the awards, followed by the announcement of the new formula racing structure for the next season and more seasons to come.
Two officials took to the stage—one male, the other female. There was an early round of applause as they got ready to call out the awards to be presented to the champions and outstanding performers.
The first award was the Formula 1 Driver's Champion.
A round of applause filled the large ballroom as Marcellus Rodnick left his seat with a composed expression. Even with that composure, Luca could sense a quiet satisfaction of a season well fought.
Rodnick strode confidently to the stage, climbed the steps to the glory of the flashing cameras, shook hands with the presenters, and finally received his trophy.
Luca joined in the applause, envisioning himself as Rodnick lifted the award high, the golden glow of the trophy reflecting across the room.
Next came the Constructors' Championship award, presented to Jackson Racing. The team principal, Mr. Gallagher, along with key figures from the crew, made their way to the stage, their navy-blue suits embroidered with the team's emblem.
Luca wondered if tonight's event was hosted in London because Jackson Racing, an English team, had won the championship. Maybe lifting the award on home soil was like a final seal on their dominance this season, because a celebration would feel even more special on home ground.
Then came the Formula 2 World Driver's Championship—Luca's award.
"You're up next," Sophia whispered while Mrs. Rennick stared into her son's soul with pride. "C'mon, they're calling you."
"Please welcome Luca Rennick."
Luca thought he was ready for this, but his heart had begun pounding against his ribs as he pushed back his chair.
The applause started from the 20th row and echoed to the front, and even though it was collectively loud, Luca could tell that some were not clapping.
He left the comfort of his table, gave a nod to Rodnick before walking to the stage, the applause now growing distant. Or maybe it was because his mind was replaying everything that had happened this season.
He had come as a young star who shattered expectations on his debut, a nineteen-year-old who had dominated an unforgiving sport, proving himself on the world stage.
Luca ascended the steps, feeling a thousand eyes stabbing his back.
The soles of his shoes met the stage, and he shook hands with the male presenter while the lady offered a hug.
Luca expected the trophy to have a bit of weight, but it was surprisingly light, as if it were made from tin and foil. Regardless of its composition, it was the heaviest thing he had ever lifted in his life.
Trampos Racing's first-ever award would be next, so Luca made his way back to his table to give them the stage. Mr. Grant, Ms. Vallotton, and Mr. Colt would represent the whole team.
Luca had barely settled back into his seat when they were called to the stage, a soft applause erupting for the F2 team that had ravaged the competition this season.
"Let me see it," Sophia urged, snatching the award from Luca's hands.
"Be careful," Luca said, his eyes elsewhere, watching his team principals' eyes beam with pride as they received the award.
Luca realized he had yet to even see Mr. Fisher, and Mr. Fisher had yet to even call for their meeting. He wondered if the negotiations with Outback might be causing some internal friction, and there was no need to even consider...
Luca shook away his thoughts and continued clapping.
The presenters took center stage once more, their voices carrying over the ballroom.
"And now, moving over to the Special Recognition Awards, where we honor the standout moments and performances of the season."
The first award in this category was the fastest lap of the year, and Luca could feel all eyes looking in his direction. This was a no-brainer because it dealt with definite figures.
"Is this even real gold?" Luca heard Sophia whisper.
"Spanish Grand Prix, Circuito del Barca-Raval, 1:07.842. Please, a round of applause for Luca Rennick!"
Mrs. Rennick was shocked that Luca was being called out again. She asked him if there was anything wrong, but Luca assured her all was fine as he rose to his feet, pushing his chair back again for the second time that night.