The early departure of Theo Pourchaire in the United States – now committed for the full season ofIndyCar, excluding Indy 500, with Arrow McLaren – left an unexpected void within Team Impul in Super Formula.
If the Japanese team has not yet announced the Frenchman's replacement for the rest of the championship, we do however know the driver who will take the seat for the next round only, at Autopolis. Toyota went to his bosom by selecting Ben Barnicoat, regular driver of the Lexus RC F GT3 from the Vasser Sullivan Racing team in IMSA.
Really excited to join @IMPUL_official for the next round of @SUPER_FORMULA at Autopolis. It's going to be a steep learning curve, but can't wait!
A big thank you to @lexusracingusa , @TOYOTA_GR & @ToyotaRacing for the opportunity. #SFormula #SFjp #superperformula pic.twitter.com/srRiU6fgLT
— Ben Barnicoat (@BenBarnicoat) May 14, 2024
The Briton started the season with excellent results, scoring two consecutive victories at Sebring then at Long Beach, before a 4th place last weekend at Laguna Seca, in the GTD Pro category. However, this freelance in Super Formula with Team Impul will be a real challenge for the 27-year-old driver, since his last experience in car in competition dates back to 2020. At the time, Ben Barnicoat had participated in four races in Formula 3 with Carlin, without meeting with great success.
The native of Chesterfield will nevertheless be able to draw on his experience aboard the TOM'S last winter, at Suzuka, during the post-season tests intended for rookies. Team Impul makes it clear that the arrival of Ben Barnicoat in the No. 19 car is only valid for the next round at Autopolis (May 18-19), and that the identity of the replacement for the rest of the season will be announced. later.
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