Here is a stunning move for you: Hiyu Yamakoshi is making the jump straight to FIA Formula 2. Van Amersfoort Racing confirmed that the Japanese driver will pilot their machine at Baku, stepping in to replace Nico Varrone.
It is a massive leap, but Yamakoshi arrives with momentum. He spent this season competing in FIA Formula 3 with the same Dutch outfit, putting together a solid rookie campaign that landed him ninth in the Drivers’ Championship. Along the way, he grabbed a top 10 finish in the standings, backed up by three podiums and a pole position.
We’re pleased to give Hiyu the opportunity to make his Formula 2 debut in Baku,
Now, he faces the brutal walls of the Baku City Circuit in just over a weeks’ time. Naturally, the driver is thrilled about the opportunity. "I’m very happy to have this opportunity to make my Formula 2 debut with VAR," Yamakoshi said. "I’ve been with the team since F4, so stepping into F2 together makes this a very special moment. I’m looking forward to learning as much as possible throughout the weekend, working with the team and making the most of the experience."
Van Amersfoort Team Principal Brad Joyce pointed to their long history together as the key to this sudden promotion. Having spent three years working with the driver across different categories, the team knows his approach and his ability to absorb information. "We’re pleased to give Hiyu the opportunity to make his Formula 2 debut in Baku," Joyce stated. "He has made strong progress this season and has shown his pace in F3, with several strong results throughout his rookie campaign. Having worked with Hiyu for three years, we know his approach and his ability to learn. This will be a new challenge for him, and we’re looking forward to working with him throughout the weekend."
Of course, this means stepping away from the current line-up. Joyce also took time to acknowledge the outgoing driver, thanking Nico Varrone for his efforts this season. Coming straight from sports car racing, Varrone faced a significant change moving into single-seater machinery, yet he adapted very well to the demands of Formula 2 in a very short period of time. The team expressed their appreciation and wished him the best for the next steps in his career.
