Ayumu Iwasa, the promising Red Bull and Honda-backed driver, is set to make his Formula 1 debut with AlphaTauri during the post-season test at Yas Marina Circuit. Despite a slim chance at the FIA Formula 2 Championship title, Iwasa’s upcoming F1 test is a significant step in his racing career, showcasing his potential on the grand stage.
Catch up quick:
- Ayumu Iwasa will take part in the F1 end-of-season test at Yas Marina with AlphaTauri, marking his first F1 experience.
- Iwasa is currently third in the FIA Formula 2 standings, with a mathematical but unlikely shot at the title in the season finale.
- The 22-year-old Japanese driver will also join the Super Formula series in 2024, returning to race in his home country.
Go deeper:
Next week, the F1 paddock will witness the rise of a new talent as Ayumu Iwasa gets behind the wheel of the AlphaTauri AT04 for a full day of testing. This opportunity not only highlights Iwasa’s progress in the motorsport ladder but also reflects the strong partnership between Red Bull and Honda in nurturing young drivers.
The F2 title may be a long shot for Iwasa, but the Yas Marina circuit could still be a stage for a dramatic twist. To snatch the championship, Iwasa needs a perfect weekend—wins in both races, pole position, fastest laps, and a bit of luck with his competitors’ results.
In addition to Iwasa’s debut, the test will feature Pirelli tyre evaluations with Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda splitting duties in the second AlphaTauri car. This aspect of the test is crucial for gathering data for the upcoming season’s tyre performance.
Looking beyond the test, Iwasa’s career trajectory is impressive. After clinching the French F4 title in 2020 and making a solid impression in F3 and F2, his return to Japan for the Super Formula series represents a new challenge and an opportunity to hone his skills further.
As Iwasa gears up for his F1 test, fans and pundits alike will be keen to see how he adapts to the pinnacle of motorsport. His performance at Yas Marina could be a glimpse into the future of F1, where new stars are born and the next generation of racing talent begins to shine. Keep an eye on this space for more updates and follow the journey of Ayumu Iwasa as he accelerates towards his F1 dreams.