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Luke Browning Rules Out F2 Return Following Super Formula Test at Suzuka
Williams junior Luke Browning has ruled out a second season in Formula 2 after finishing fourth in his rookie campaign, turning his focus toward a 2026 Super Formula seat following a test with Kondo Racing.
By Michael de Vries - 2025-12-15T13:34:58.000Z - 2 min read
Luke Browning has explicitly ruled out competing in Formula 2 for a second season, electing to focus his efforts on securing a switch to Super Formula in 2026. The 23-year-old Williams Formula 1 junior driver finished fourth in the championship during his rookie F2 campaign, a result he believes demonstrates his ability without needing another year in the category.
Following the conclusion of his debut year with Hitech, Browning views his single season on the F2 grid as sufficient validation of his career trajectory. Rather than seeking a second year in the main Formula 1 feeder series, the British driver has opted to redirect his career path toward Japan's premier single-seater championship.
That intent was put into practice immediately after his rookie F2 commitments wrapped up. Last week, Browning travelled to Suzuka to participate in Super Formula's post-season testing program, stepping straight from his Hitech F2 seat into Japanese single-seater machinery as he evaluates his options for the upcoming 2026 racing season.
During the Suzuka track session, Browning lined up with Kondo Racing, working alongside the Toyota-powered squad to gain vital experience. The test provided the Williams junior with his first extended taste of Super Formula equipment, allowing him to sample the car's performance characteristics right after concluding his F2 campaign.
Addressing his decision to move away from F2, Browning explained that he had "proved" himself enough during his rookie season to avoid needing a second term. Having secured fourth position in the final drivers' standings with Hitech, he expressed complete confidence that his single-year performance answered any remaining questions about his potential.
The decision to bypass a second F2 campaign represents a decisive step for the Williams academy member. By joining Kondo Racing for the post-season test at Suzuka immediately after the F2 finale, Browning gained early exposure to both the team dynamic and the Toyota engine package that could define his 2026 program.
With Formula 2 now firmly off his agenda, Browning’s attention is directed entirely at cementing his place on the Super Formula grid for next year. His post-season test with Kondo Racing signals a clear departure from the traditional European ladder as he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his career.