Japanese drivers try to break through in Formula 1 but face linguistic and geographical barriers
SUZUKA, Japan — About two dozen Japanese drivers have raced in Formula 1 over almost 50 years, and success has been limited. “I want to be in an F1 seat as a regular driver, and also be world champion,” the 22-year-old Iwasa said Friday after driving a single practice session for the RB team. “For sure it’s not easy.” Iwasa was given the chance to perform before the home crowd in Japan, partly because of his nationality, his talent, and because Honda — which powers the RB team, formerly known as AlphaTauri, and its parent team Red Bull — also runs the Suzuka circuit. “I didn’t feel so much pressure because I knew what to do in the car, and also we had a plan for the session,” Iwasa said. And to be close as much as possible to the Formula 1 teams, to get attention.” He also said European drivers typically start racing at a younger age than drivers in Japan.
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