Roman Stanek Joins Super Formula with Kondo Racing for 2026 | Motorsport.com
- Roman Stanek, a Formula 2 race winner, will make the switch to Super Formula in 2026, joining Kondo Racing in an expanded three-car effort.
- Stanek will race under the “Buzz MK Racing” banner, a necessary maneuver as Super Formula regulations limit official entrants to fielding only two cars.
- “I’m very happy to continue my career in top level single-seater racing,” Stanek said in a statement released by the team.
Roman Stanek, a Formula 2 race winner, will make the switch to Super Formula in 2026, joining Kondo Racing in an expanded three-car effort. The announcement, made by the team on Saturday, , completes a protracted negotiation for the Czech driver to secure a seat in a third Dallara-Toyota entry.
Stanek will race under the “Buzz MK Racing” banner, a necessary maneuver as Super Formula regulations limit official entrants to fielding only two cars. He will join previously confirmed drivers Luke Browning and Ukyo Sasahara, creating a formidable lineup for Kondo Racing as they aim to challenge for the championship.
“I’m very happy to continue my career in top level single-seater racing,” Stanek said in a statement released by the team. “I’m looking forward to making a new start in Japan with Buzz MK Racing and I want to thank the team for giving me this opportunity. I’ll give it everything to show the best possible performance on the high-level stage that is Super Formula.”
The 21-year-old Stanek brings a strong pedigree to the Japanese series. He spent the last three seasons competing in Formula 2, initially with Trident in and , before moving to Invicta Racing last year. During his time in F2, he secured two race wins and five podium finishes, achieving a best championship result of 10th in .
Prior to his success in Formula 2, Stanek also demonstrated his talent in FIA Formula 3 and Euroformula Open, adding to his well-rounded racing background. His arrival in Super Formula marks a significant step in his career, as he transitions to a new and highly competitive racing environment.
Stanek’s debut in the SF23 car is scheduled for next week’s two-day pre-season test at Suzuka. The test will provide valuable track time, with four hours of running scheduled for both Wednesday and Thursday, allowing Stanek to familiarize himself with the car and the circuit.
The addition of Kondo Racing’s third car, and Stanek’s entry, swells the Super Formula grid to 24 cars – a level not seen in the series since the early stages of the season. This expansion underscores the growing popularity and competitiveness of the championship.
The grid will now consist of 14 Toyota-powered cars, including the returning Team Goh squad, and 10 Honda-powered entries. This balanced distribution of engine manufacturers promises a thrilling season of close racing and strategic battles.
Stanek’s move to Super Formula follows a period of uncertainty regarding driver lineups for the season. His confirmation comes after initial interest in Jehan Daruvala waned, making him a late but welcome addition to the grid. He joins Luke Browning in making the transition from Formula 2 to Super Formula, signaling the championship’s appeal to emerging talent from the feeder series.
The Czech driver’s arrival also marks the first time a driver from his country will compete in Japan’s top formula series since Jarek Janis raced for Kondo Racing in , further highlighting the international reach and growing diversity of Super Formula.
As Stanek prepares for his Super Formula debut, all eyes will be on his performance at the Suzuka pre-season test. The test will be crucial for him to adapt to the new car, the challenging circuit, and the unique demands of the Japanese racing series. His success will not only depend on his skill and experience but also on his ability to quickly integrate with the Kondo Racing team and master the intricacies of Super Formula racing.