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Thrilling race dynamics at Motegi
In a spectacular display of skill and strategy, Dandelion Racing extended its winning streak in the Super Formula series with Kakunoshin Ohta’s impressive performance at the Motegi circuit. Starting from second on the grid, Ohta capitalized on a first-lap safety car that prompted most of the field to pit early, allowing him to leapfrog his competitors. This strategic maneuver not only showcased Ohta’s racing acumen but also highlighted the team’s exceptional planning and execution.
As the race unfolded, Kenta Yamashita, who had secured pole position with a commanding lead, faced misfortune. A slow pit stop and a loose right-rear tire dashed his hopes for victory, leaving him to trundle back to the pits. Meanwhile, Ohta’s teammate, Tadasuke Makino, who opted to stay out longer, initially led a group of drivers but eventually succumbed to the tire strategy that favored Ohta.
Strategic tire management
Makino’s decision to push his tires to the limit paid off initially, as he managed to hold off several competitors. However, the race’s dynamics shifted dramatically when he finally pitted on lap 23. Ohta, having already made his stop, reclaimed a comfortable lead. The ability to manage tire wear effectively became a crucial factor in this race, as Ohta demonstrated a masterclass in maintaining pace on older tires while keeping his rivals at bay.
As the laps progressed, Makino fought hard to close the gap, but Ohta’s consistent performance ensured that he maintained a solid lead. The race concluded with Ohta finishing 4.6 seconds ahead of Makino, marking Dandelion Racing’s second consecutive one-two finish, albeit with the drivers in reverse order from the previous day’s race.
Rising stars and fierce competition
Ayumu Iwasa, driving for Team Mugen, showcased his resilience by securing third place after a challenging start to the weekend. His ability to overtake competitors and capitalize on their mistakes demonstrated his potential as a rising star in the series. Meanwhile, Sacha Fenestraz and Sena Sakaguchi battled fiercely for positions, showcasing the intense competition that defines Super Formula racing.
As the season progresses, the standings have tightened, with Ohta now leading the drivers’ championship with 61 points, just ahead of Makino. Iwasa’s strong performance has propelled him to third place, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the season with eight races still to go. The thrill of Super Formula racing continues to captivate fans, as teams and drivers push their limits in pursuit of glory.