Haas will hold its next Testing Previous Cars F1 programme at Fuji Speedway with Toyota-backed drives.
After running a couple of TPC programmes in Europe, Haas will head to Japan next month in August to host an international run at Fuji Speedway. The circuit which last hosted the Japanese GP in 2008, will see the modern F1 car in action as part of the Toyota deal.
The VF-23 will driven by Ryo Hirakawa, who has already tested under TPC programme and also in FP1. For Sho Tsuboi, it will be his first chance in a F1 car. The 2024 Super Formula and multi-year Super GT champion has only competed in Japan in his career.
Unlike other Japanese drivers, Tsuboi has stayed back in Japan and continued racing in Super Formula and Super GT championships for long. This is a reward for the 30-year-old’s championship-winning run in both the series he has entered in.
Hirawaka will drive on August 6, followed by Tsuboi in August 7. The TPC will be open for public to attend on both the days. “I’m naturally very excited that in our first season running the team’s TPC program we’re able to enjoy two days running at Fuji Speedway in Japan,” said Ayao Komatsu, who himself drove the Haas car in Goodwood alongside Gene.
“The significance of running our car at Toyota’s home circuit – where we first announced our partnership with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing last October, it’s quite special. To then give Sho Tsuboi his first outing in a Formula 1 car is equally satisfying considering his pedigree as a multiple champion.
“We’re obviously already familiar with Ryō’s talents and we look forward to his continued feedback into our program. The fact that we’re running the VF-23 and the test is open to fans – that’s a great thing too. We know the passion Japanese fans have for Formula 1, so to get a second run in the country there this year after April’s Japanese Grand Prix is fantastic.”
TGR’s Masaya Kaji added: “I’m very pleased that this TPC is being held at Fuji Speedway. We’ve formed a technical partnership aimed at honing the three essential elements of car manufacturing – ‘People, Pipeline and Product’. This TPC is part of our efforts related to ‘People’, which focuses on developing human resources.
“I believe that Sho’s challenge, given his experience as a champion of the Super Formula series, will not only contribute to his own skill development but also provide valuable motivation for the other TGR drivers. Additionally, Toyota Motor Corporation’s mechanics and engineers will be present, making this a valuable learning opportunity for them as well. Experiencing the technologies and skills required on the world’s highest stage of F1, up close, will surely be a significant experience for their growth.
“Together with MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, we aim not only to promote the growth of each driver, engineer, and mechanic through such challenges but also to enhance their technical skills. We believe that the experiences gained will be passed down to the next generation, contributing to the overall improvement of competition and technology levels in the motorsports industry.”
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