Rowland to visit Super Formula test at Suzuka, option for 2018
Oliver Rowland will attend the post-season Japanese Super Formula test at Suzuka, ahead of a potential 2018 campaign in the series.
Rowland, who is currently testing with Racing Engineering in Formula 2’s post-season test in Abu Dhabi, will fly to Suzuka to begin talks with Team LeMans over a possible 2018 drive.
Although it’s yet to be confirmed, it’s highly likely the Renault F1 development driver will test the car. The test takes place on Wednesday and Thursday.
“I’m really looking forward to heading out to Japan to meet with Team LeMans,” Rowland said.
“It’s a fantastic country and my trip will bring back special memories as I won the world championship there in 2010 during my karting career.
“Super Formula has really progressed in recent years and has provided a great platform for Stoffel Vandoorne and Pierre Gasly to progress to Formula 1.
“To follow in their footsteps would be fantastic but we will have to see.”
Super Formula is one of many options on the table for Rowland in 2018, but is believed to be the favourite alongside a return to F2, with an F1 seat still firmly in his sights.
Team LeMans is also running one of its 2017 drivers Kazuya Oshima, alongside fellow F2 racer Ralph Boschung, European Formula 3 frontrunner Maximilian Gunther and ex-F3/Indy Lights star Felix Serralles.
Elsewhere, ex-F1 driver Rio Haryanto will drive the Honda test car.
Following Rowland from Abu Dhabi to Suzuka will be GP3 race winner Nirei Fukuzumi and recent F2 rookie Alex Palou.