The new Super Formula season will see an updated car with a revamped aerodynamic system. The new single-seater will be dubbed the SF23, an upgrade on the current Dallara SF19 package which was introduced three years ago.
Reports emerged in October that the upgrade may not be implemented in 2023 after disputes between teams and the organisation over who would front the bill.
That’s now been resolved, Super Formula confirming the change earlier this week.
Work on the new package started at the beginning of this year with testing and development ongoing throughout the campaign.
As we’ve seen here with the new Gen3 Supercar, Super Formula developed two prototypes called Red Tiger (Toyota) and White Tiger (Honda) for testing and development purposes. These two cars were displayed at events throughout the season.
Test drivers have covered over 11,000km in the cars between them, the final versions presented at Suzuka in October ahead of the season finale.
The completed version of the SF23 includes upgraded front and rear wings, sidepods, engine cover and floor.
Yokohama has also come to the party and developed tyres produced in a more sustainable manner for racing.
It’s estimated the changes come at a cost of downforce but with a massive reduction in dirty air. This should create some more competitive racing despite lap times being an estimated one second slower than this year’s.
The field, including New Zealander Liam Lawson, will get to officially debut the SF23 in a pre-season test at Suzuka in March.
The 2023 Super Formula season begins at Fuji on April 7-9.
2023 Super Formula Calendar
| Race | Track | Dates |
| 1 | Fuji | 7-9 April |
| 2 | Fuji | 7-9 April |
| 3 | Suzuka | 21-23 April |
| 4 | Autopolis | 19-21 May |
| 5 | Sportsland SUGO | 16-18 June |
| 6 | Fuji | 14-16 July |
| 7 | Mobility Resort Motegi | 18-20 August |
| 8 | Suzuka | 27-29 October |
| 9 | Suzuka | 27-29 October |
