Patricio O'Ward to focus on Super Formula

In the fold Red Bull, events can happen one after another at great speed. As soon as Dan Ticktum has been sidelined from the Austrian brand's program, here comes Patricio O'Ward is offered his chance in the seat of Team Mugen, the strong arm of Honda, the engine manufacturer of Red Bull in F1, in Super Formula.

The Mexican will indeed take the place of the double winner of the Macau Grand Prix in the remaining rounds on the calendar, thus following the path of another resident of the Red Bull fold, Pierre Gasly, today a regular driver in F1.

O'Ward admits he learned the news recently while competing in this weekend's FIA event F2 of Spielberg at MP Motorsport. “Dr. Helmut Marko spoke to me about an hour ago (Friday morning), admits O'Ward, also engaged at the start of the year on a partial program in IndyCar.

He indicated that he would like me to do the final Super Formula races in Japan, as well as perhaps some other F2 races if that can be arranged. It’s a huge opportunity of course and I’m very excited.

I know it will be a big challenge. Like in F2 this weekend, I don't know the Japanese tracks or the car, but I believe there is more track time in a race weekend. I know the culture and communications are different and the show is at a very high level, so it's a fantastic chance for me to learn and progress. »

Concerning the sidelining of Dan Ticktum, Helmut Marko simply clarified that “Dan had not had the success we expected” in Super Formula. O'Ward will support Tomoki Nojiri from the weekend of July 13 and 14.