Formula 1 team Haas has confirmed that Super Formula champion Sho Tsuboi will participate in a two-day TPC test with their VF-23 car at Fuji Speedway on August 6-7. This test marks Tsuboi’s initial drive in a Formula 1 car, bringing a significant opportunity in his racing career.
As a Toyota factory driver, Tsuboi will share the test sessions with Haas reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa at the Japanese circuit, which last hosted a Grand Prix in 2008. The test represents a key moment for the 30-year-old following his first Super Formula championship victory with TOM’S, Toyota’s flagship team, last year.
A Milestone in the Haas and Toyota Partnership
Tsuboi’s upcoming F1 test is a notable outcome of the collaboration between Haas and Toyota that began last year. This partnership aims to promote Japanese talent in Formula 1 through opportunities like this test.
Hirakawa, who has prior experience with Haas, has participated in several sessions, including FP1 appearances at the Bahrain and Spanish Grands Prix earlier this season. Additionally, former Super Formula champion Ritomo Miyata, who previously raced for TOM’S before moving to Formula 2, conducted a test with Haas in Jerez in January.
Tsuboi’s Achievements and Current Season Form
Replacing Miyata last year at TOM’S, Tsuboi secured the Super Formula title by winning three races at Fuji and outpacing strong competitors. Presently, he holds third place in the Super Formula championship standings ahead of the upcoming sixth and seventh rounds at Fuji, trailing Tadasuke Makino and Kakunoshin Ohta.
Aside from Super Formula, Tsuboi is a three-time Super GT title winner with TOM’S and leads the current championship, aiming for his fourth crown within five years.
Tsuboi’s Response to His F1 Test Opportunity
Sho Tsuboi expressed his gratitude and excitement about the chance to drive for Haas in Formula 1, stating:
“Thank you to Team Haas and TGR [Toyota Gazoo Racing] for giving me this wonderful opportunity. Of course, I’m very much looking forward to driving the F1 car. I want to make this the perfect day and take this once-in-a-lifetime chance to make my dreams come true!” —Sho Tsuboi, Toyota factory driver
What This Means for Tsuboi and Formula 1
Tsuboi’s first test with Haas deepens the connection between Japanese motorsport and Formula 1, highlighting the potential for Toyota-backed drivers to enter the F1 arena. His performance in the upcoming test could pave the way for future roles within Haas or other F1 teams, offering a pathway from Super Formula and Super GT success to the pinnacle of single-seater racing.
The Fuji test will offer valuable data and experience for Tsuboi, reinforcing his profile as one of Japan’s leading racing talents and expanding Haas’s engagement with Toyota’s driver development.
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