Vandoorne completes maiden Super Formula test

McLaren-Honda protégé and 2015 GP2 Series winner Stoffel Vandoorne completed his maiden Super Formula test, setting the 17th fastest time on Day 1 of this week’s session at Suzuka.

The Belgian ace drove the Honda-powered Docomo Team Dandelion machine but his progress was hampered by engine-related issues, while poor weather conditions also disrupted proceedings at the Japanese Grand Prix venue.

“It’s been a fantastic day for me, my first time in a Super Formula car,” Vandoorne told the series’ official Facebook page after the test. “It was also a new track for me and I really enjoyed my time here.

“It’s been a bit of a difficult day for us with engine problems in the morning. I did not do so many laps in dry conditions but I think our pace looked pretty good before the failure.

“In the afternoon, the conditions were quite difficult. It rained then it stopped, so it was really tricky. I think we managed it quite well though. I’m looking forward to putting everything together and hopefully having another go in one of these cars.”

Vandoorne recently declared that he definitely wanted to race something next year, with Super Formula emerging as a potential option alongside his reserve role at McLaren-Honda.

The 23-year-old now heads to Abu Dhabi where he will look to cap his record GP2 Series campaign with another strong showing.

Unfinished business: the scores still to be settled in Abu Dhabi

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