Luke Browning’s Move to Super Formula: An Exciting Transition
Luke Browning, currently a standout in Formula 2 and a Williams Formula 1 junior, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in his racing career by participating in the post-season Super Formula test at Suzuka from December 10-12. This move signals a significant shift for Browning, who is expected to join the Toyota-powered Kondo Racing squad for the 2026 season. The British driver’s transition to Super Formula, one of the most competitive and demanding series in motorsport, comes as a natural progression in his development as a top-tier racing talent. While the specific team he will join for the test was not officially disclosed, insiders suggest that Kondo Racing will be Browning’s home, marking the beginning of a new and promising journey in his motorsport career.
Preparing for the Test: Balancing Commitments
Despite his commitments, Browning has managed to schedule his appearances carefully to maximize his preparation for the upcoming test. He is confirmed to participate in F1’s young driver test in Abu Dhabi for Williams on December 9, which will likely require him to skip the first day of the Suzuka test due to travel logistics. As a Super Formula rookie, Browning is eligible to participate in all three days of the test, including the final day reserved for drivers with fewer than four race starts. This exception underscores the importance of the test in helping rookies like Browning acclimate to the high-speed, high-stakes environment of Super Formula racing.
New Faces and Old Friends at Kondo Racing
Browning’s anticipated switch to Kondo Racing is part of a broader reshuffle within the team. The 23-year-old is expected to form part of an all-new driver line-up alongside Jack Doohan, the former Alpine Formula 1 driver. This pairing is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to Kondo Racing, combining Browning’s rising star status with Doohan’s experienced F1 background. The duo will replace Kenta Yamashita, who is moving to the Toyota squad KCMG, and Zak O’Sullivan, the ex-Williams junior who made the leap to Super Formula earlier this year. O’Sullivan, while leaving Kondo, is still expected to test for Team Impul, potentially securing a seat with the team led by Kazuyoshi Hoshino, which is rumored to be scaling down to a single car due to financial constraints.
KCMG’s New Line-Up and Rovanpera’s Move
KCMG is also making significant changes to its driver line-up, with Kenta Yamashita poised to join the team and become team-mates with Kalle Rovanpera. Rovanpera, a two-time World Rally champion, concluded his final WRC season in Saudi Arabia last weekend and is eager to transition to Super Formula. Rovanpera’s addition to KCMG brings a wealth of championship experience and a fresh perspective to the team. The Finnish driver’s participation in the Suzuka test is a crucial step in his preparation for the 2026 season, showcasing his versatility and commitment to excelling in new racing environments.
Emerging Talent and Test Participants
The Suzuka test is set to feature a mix of emerging talent and experienced drivers, adding to the excitement and competitiveness of the event. Toyota junior Rikuto Kobayashi and Formula Regional Japan champion Kiyoshi Umegaki are among the confirmed participants, bringing their respective skills and experiences to the track. Kobayashi, who is set to form an all-new line-up at TGM Grand Prix alongside Kamui Kobayashi, is expected to participate on the opening day of the test. World Endurance Championship driver Riki Okusa, who has prior race experience with TGM, and Nissan Super GT driver Teppei Natori, who last appeared in the Suzuka test two years ago for Kondo, will also be part of the lineup. Former W Series driver Miki Koyama, who made her Super Formula debut last year, and up-and-coming driver Riki Umegaki, will add to the diversity and talent pool of the test participants.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Super Formula
The announcement of the initial lineup for the Suzuka test is just the beginning, and JRP is expected to reveal the full entry list on Friday. This test is a critical moment for drivers like Luke Browning, who are on the cusp of transitioning to a higher level of competition. It provides a platform for them to showcase their skills, receive valuable feedback, and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in the 2026 Super Formula season. As the motorsport world watches, these young drivers and seasoned veterans will use the test to fine-tune their craft and position themselves for success in one of the most prestigious and demanding racing series in the world. With the eagerly anticipated full entry list on the horizon, the stage is set for a thrilling and pivotal moment in the world of Super Formula.
