Racing prodigies Igor Fraga and Syun Koide demonstrated strong potential during Super Formula's post-season winter test at Suzuka Circuit, positioning themselves as prime candidates for 2025 seats.

Igor Fraga emerged as the standout performer, leading all rookie sessions across three days. The Brazilian-Japanese driver, a four-time Gran Turismo World Series esports champion, showcased significant improvement after adapting from GT3 cars to the considerably faster Super Formula machine.

"Every time I was trying to push the car, the limit was not there," Fraga reflected on his initial day. "The car felt a lot more comfortable on the second day, and I could feel more confidence pushing toward the limit."

Fraga's experience as Nakajima Racing's 2024 reserve driver and his successful stint in Super Formula Lights (securing fourth place with six podiums and one victory) strengthen his candidacy for a full-time seat.

Meanwhile, Syun Koide, the 25-year-old Japanese talent, impressed during his second Super Formula test with B-Max Racing Team. The 2023 Super Formula Lights Champion and GT500 class promotee completed 178 laps over three days, showing marked improvement from his previous test.

"My experience in Super Formula Lights enabled me to feel the car better," Koide explained. "I'm not 100 percent yet, but I can get there with a few more steps."

Both drivers represent different paths to success - Fraga through esports and Koide through a late start in traditional racing. Their performances at Suzuka suggest either could make a compelling addition to the 2025 Super Formula grid, with final decisions expected in the coming weeks.

This evolution highlights the growing diversity in motorsport talent development, from traditional racing backgrounds to esports champions transitioning to real-world competition. As both drivers await confirmation of their 2025 seats, they've certainly made strong cases for their inclusion in Japan's premier open-wheel series.

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