Haas F1 will conduct tests in Japan for Toyota drivers.

      In early August, the Haas F1 team will travel to Japan, where Toyota drivers Riko Hirakawa and Sho Tsuboi will have the opportunity to participate in testing sessions behind the wheel of the VF-23, the 2023 Formula 1 car. The tests will take place on August 6 and 7 at the Fuji Speedway; Hirakawa, the team's official reserve driver, will drive first, followed by Tsuboi the next day. For the 30-year-old Toyota Gazoo Racing driver competing in the Japanese Super Formula and Super GT series, this will be his first experience driving a Formula 1 car. He is the reigning Super Formula champion and has won three titles in Super GT, including three victories in the GT500 class. Hirakawa previously participated in testing in Abu Dhabi at the end of last year and has conducted Friday practice sessions in Bahrain and Spain this season. According to plans, Rio also tested older-year cars (TPC) during April tests at Silverstone. Team principal Ayo Komatsu said, "Of course, I am very pleased that even in our first season under the TPC regulations, we will be able to conduct a two-day test in Japan at Fuji Speedway. These tests are quite an important event for Toyota, as they will be held at its home track, where in October last year we announced the beginning of our partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing (the Japanese automaker's racing division). We are also glad to give Sho Tsuboi the opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car for the first time, considering his many titles. We are naturally familiar with Rio's talent, and his collaboration with our program will continue. It is also wonderful that the tests with the VF-23 will be open to fans for free attendance. We know that the Japanese public passionately loves Formula 1, so it’s great that we are returning to this country after the April Japanese Grand Prix." Mechanics and engineers from Toyota Motor Corporation will also be involved in the testing along with the Haas team, providing them with a chance to learn and gain valuable professional experience.