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Super Formula champion Nojiri completes maiden F1 outing in 2021 Red Bull
Honda factory driver Nojiri had the opportunity to drive the 2021 championship-winning RB16B at Mobility Resort Motegi. This was Honda’s way of rewarding Nojiri for his success in Super Formula, where he won back-to-back titles for Team Mugen. Despite missing a round due to a collapsed run, Nojiri was in the running for a third consecutive crown in Super Formula. He expressed interest in taking on a new challenge abroad, but later clarified his excitement for Super Formula and Super GT. The RB16B, which he drove at Motegi, played a pivotal role in Max Verstappen’s championship victory in Formula 1. Nojiri will drive the car again on Sunday as part of a special collaboration between Red Bull Racing Honda and TEAM MUGEN. Additionally, Red Bull/Honda junior Ayumu Iwasa will join Nojiri in completing laps in the SF23 at Motegi. Nojiri is set to continue his dual campaign in Japan in 2024, driving for Mugen in Super Formula and for ARTA in Super GT. There are uncertainties surrounding Toshiki Oyu’s future at Honda, with the possibility of a new teammate for Nojiri in Super GT next year.
