In a surprise development that has motorsport fans buzzing, Formula 1’s newest stars Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Oliver Bearman are set to showcase their talent in the Japanese Super Formula Championship’s winter test at Suzuka Circuit. This marks the duo’s first time driving at the iconic track, adding a fresh chapter to their burgeoning careers.
Antonelli and Bearman: F1’s Brightest Lights in Super Formula
Both drivers will take the wheel of the cutting-edge Dallara SF23, stepping up from the F2 machinery they raced in 2024. The test, focused on grooming rookies, offers Antonelli and Bearman a golden opportunity to familiarize themselves with one of the most technically challenging circuits in the world.
Oliver Bearman, the 20-year-old British driver joining Haas for 2025, will drive KCMG’s No. 7 car, typically piloted by Kamui Kobayashi. Excited for the challenge, Bearman acknowledged Suzuka’s importance:
“It’s one of the circuits which will be new to me next season, so getting the chance to experience it, and in such an amazing car, will be super helpful!”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, an 18-year-old prodigy replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025, will take over Rookie Racing’s No. 14 car. Known for his exceptional performances in junior categories, Antonelli’s move to Super Formula’s test underscores his meteoric rise in the sport.
Elite Talent Joins a Star-Studded Test Lineup
Antonelli and Bearman are just two of 14 rookies participating in the test. Their F1 experience adds a unique flavor to an already stellar lineup that includes former Formula E driver Sacha Fenestraz and other Super Formula hopefuls.
Notable names include:
- Juan Manuel Correa (Kondo Racing): Making a comeback after his F2 stint, Correa will run on Thursday.
- Igor Fraga (Nakajima Racing): The esports champion-turned-racer is a favorite to step into Super Formula full-time.
- Miki Koyama (KCMG): The W Series veteran is vying to become Super Formula’s next female driver.
- Syun Koide (B-Max Racing): Honda’s top prospect and reigning Super Formula Lights champion will drive all three days.
Suzuka Winter Test: A Showcase of Skill and Speed
The Suzuka winter test provides teams and drivers a chance to evaluate talent while preparing for the 2025 Super Formula season. Over three days, rookies and veterans will alternate in high-stakes sessions designed to push the limits of the Dallara SF23.
Test Schedule:
- Wednesday & Thursday: Two sessions per day, 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM JST.
- Friday (Rookies Only): 9:30–11:00 AM & 1:00–2:00 PM JST.
Fans can follow the action live via Super Formula’s streaming platform, SFgo, available for a yearly subscription of ~$80 or ~$10/month.
A Glimpse into the Future of Motorsport
The addition of Antonelli and Bearman to this prestigious test highlights the growing crossover between Formula 1 and Japan’s premier single-seater championship. As both drivers prepare to make their mark in F1 next season, their Suzuka stint offers a tantalizing preview of their potential.
With Super Formula continuing to be a breeding ground for global racing talent, this year’s rookie test might just offer a glimpse of motorsport’s next big stars.
