The 2026 Super Formula season promises another high-speed war between Japan’s elite racing teams as Honda and Toyota battle for supremacy. As interest in Japanese open-wheel racing reaches an all-time high globally, the super formula 2026 teams are under more scrutiny than ever. This championship has long been recognized as the fastest single-seater category outside of Formula 1, serving as a critical driver development series for both domestic prodigies and international formula racing standouts.
As the 2026 championship campaign gathers momentum, the paddock is buzzing with storylines surrounding returning champions, headline-making manufacturer transfers, and talented international rookies attempting to master the brutal high-downforce Dallara SF23 chassis. Meanwhile, powerhouse organizations such as Team Mugen and Vantelin Team TOM’S continue to set the benchmark, while ambitious contenders like Docomo Team Dandelion Racing push aggressively to close the gap. At the same time, manufacturers are intensifying the fierce Honda vs Toyota rivalry, adding even more pressure across the grid. Consequently, understanding how these elite racing teams, engineering departments, and driver pairings compare has become essential for following one of the most competitive and technically demanding motorsport seasons in the world.
Complete Super Formula 2026 Teams List
The grid for the super formula championship 2026 teams consists of an elite entry lineup, strictly divided by engine manufacturers. A total of 12 professional racing teams field 24 entries across the calendar, utilizing identical spec aerodynamic chassis but completely unique manufacturer engines. This balanced environment puts the pressure entirely on team engineering, strategy, and pure driver skill.
Below is the definitive super formula 2026 team list, tracking the official teams and their operational entry numbers for the current championship season.
Honda-Powered Teams
The Honda-backed stable focuses on continuity and refined driver development pathways. Historically dominant at high-speed venues, these super formula 2026 honda teams rely on the lightweight, high-revving Honda HR-41E engine package.
- Team Mugen Autobacs: The benchmark operation in the paddock, running entries #1 and #16.
- Docomo Team Dandelion Racing: The Kyoto-based powerhouse and reigning teams’ champion, running entries #5 and #6.
- Ponos Nakajima Racing: Led by racing legend Satoru Nakajima, running entries #64 and #65.
- Hazama Ando Triple Tree Racing: A dedicated single-car entry running the prominent #10 car.
- ThreeBond Racing: A highly focused single-car platform optimized for rising talent, fielding car #12.
- San-Ei Gen with B-Max: Running entry #50 in close collaboration with elite junior development pipelines.
- Delightworks Racing: The newest single-car addition to the grid, operating the #22 entry.
Toyota-Powered Teams
Toyota’s response in the open-wheel championship is massive, featuring a heavily shuffled lineup of top-tier talent. These super formula 2026 toyota teams leverage the powerful TRD-developed Toyota Biz-01F engine.
- Vantelin Team TOM’S: Toyota’s flagship performance outfit, campaigning entries #36 and #37.
- Wecars Team Impul with SDG: The legendary Kazuyoshi Hoshino-led team, utilizing the iconic #19 slot.
- Realize Kondo Racing: Managed by Masahiko Kondo, running cars #3 and #4.
- Sanki Vertex Partners Cerumo・Inging: A multi-car force tracking front-running status with entries #38 and #39.
- KDDI TGMGP TGR-DC: A technical developmental program running cars #7 and #28.
- KCMG (KC Motorgroup): A globally renowned motorsport operation fielding entries #8 and #9.
- NTT Docomo Business Rookie: Operating as a highly tactical single-car entrant via the #14 garage.
- Team Goh / Navikuru Buzz MK Racing: Utilizing strategic entries like #53 and #97 to integrate top international prospects.
Super Formula 2026 Drivers and Team Lineup
Every seat on the grid represents a fierce battle between rising stars and experienced veterans competing for Japanese motorsport glory. Meanwhile, the official Super Formula 2026 entry list showcases a fascinating mix of cultures, backgrounds, and racing philosophies. As a result, the 12-round campaign delivers one of the most competitive grids in modern open-wheel racing.
Grid Structure Overview
The complete Super Formula 2026 drivers and teams matrix highlights how each outfit has strategically aligned its driver pairings and machinery. Furthermore, with both Honda and Toyota power units evenly distributed, every team enters the season on relatively balanced technical footing, making driver skill and execution even more critical.
Super Formula 2026 Teams, Drivers & Lineup Matrix
| Team | Engine | Car No. | Driver | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Team Mugen | Honda | 1 | Ayumu Iwasa | Defending Series Champion / F1 Reserve |
| Team Mugen | Honda | 16 | Tomoki Nojiri | Two-Time Super Formula Champion |
| Docomo Team Dandelion Racing | Honda | 5 | Tadasuke Makino | Multi-Time Race Winner & GT500 Star |
| Docomo Team Dandelion Racing | Honda | 6 | Kakunoshin Ohta | Current Championship Leader |
| Ponos Nakajima Racing | Honda | 64 | Ren Sato | Honda Prodigy |
| Ponos Nakajima Racing | Honda | 65 | Igor Omura Fraga | Esports Champion Turned Racer |
| Vantelin Team TOM’S | Toyota | 36 | Sho Tsuboi | 2024 Champion |
| Vantelin Team TOM’S | Toyota | 37 | Sacha Fenestraz | International Open-Wheel Star |
| Realize Kondo Racing | Toyota | 3 | Luke Browning | F1 Junior Driver |
| Realize Kondo Racing | Toyota | 4 | Ukyo Sasahara | Experienced Race Winner |
| Cerumo・Inging | Toyota | 38 | Sena Sakaguchi | Consistent Points Finisher |
| Cerumo・Inging | Toyota | 39 | Toshiki Oyu | Aggressive Fan Favorite |
| KCMG | Toyota | 8 | Kenta Yamashita | Veteran Race Winner |
| KCMG | Toyota | 9 | Seita Nonaka | Rising Toyota Talent |
| Wecars Team Impul | Toyota | 19 | Zak O’Sullivan | F1 Academy Graduate |
| Triple Tree Racing | Honda | 10 | Juju Noda | Trailblazing Female Racer |
| ThreeBond Racing | Honda | 12 | Syun Koide | Super Formula Lights Champion |
| Delightworks Racing | Honda | 22 | Nobuharu Matsushita | F2 Race Winner |
| B-Max Racing | Honda | 50 | Yuto Nomura | Rising Lights Champion |
| Team Goh | Toyota | 53 | Charlie Wurz | F3 Graduate |
| KDDI TGMGP TGR-DCT | Toyota | 7 | Kamui Kobayashi | Ex-F1 & WEC Legend |
| KDDI TGMGP TGR-DCT | Toyota | 28 | Rikuto Kobayashi | Toyota Development Driver |
| Navikuru Buzz MK Racing | Toyota | 97 | Roman Staněk | Former F2 Competitor |
This highly dynamic super formula 2026 driver lineup guarantees that there are no “easy rounds” anywhere on the race calendar.
Honda vs Toyota: The Biggest Rivalry in Super Formula
Super Formula’s identity has long been shaped by the fierce Honda versus Toyota war, where every tenth of a second matters. This isn’t just an ordinary motorsport supplier agreement; it is a profound engineering rivalry deeply rooted in corporate pride and automotive development.
Honda HR-41E Engine
- Delivers exceptional high-RPM peak power
- Excels through fast-flowing corners and technical sections
- Particularly strong at the Suzuka S-Curves
- Focused on aggressive top-end performance
Toyota Biz-01F Engine
- Provides superior low-end torque and driveability
- Offers strong acceleration and smoother power delivery
- Performs exceptionally well on long straights like Fuji Speedway
- Designed for consistent traction and stability
The super formula honda vs toyota dynamic dictates the entire technical trajectory of a race weekend. Honda-powered entries focus on high-RPM efficiency and peak power delivery, which historically gives them a fractional advantage through complex, flowing sectors like the Suzuka S-Curves.
Conversely, the Toyota-backed teams benefit from excellent low-end torque and power management, making them incredibly lethal when deploying overtaking maneuvers down the 1.5-kilometer front straightaway at Fuji Speedway. Because the championship utilizes a strict single-spec tire supplier, the development war between these two iconic super formula engine suppliers remains the ultimate differentiating factor in constructor performance.
Team Mugen, TOM’S, Impul and Other Top Teams to Watch
When assessing the hierarchy of the super formula 2026 team list, certain operations consistently demand attention due to their vast infrastructure, deep financial backing, and legacy of championship titles.
Team Mugen Championship Chances
Operating as the pinnacle of Honda’s racing program, Team Mugen enters 2026 targeting complete domination. Furthermore, retaining defending champion Ayumu Iwasa alongside two-time title winner Tomoki Nojiri gives the team one of the strongest driver pairings on the grid. Meanwhile, their flawless engineering feedback and setup development make car #1 and car #16 immediate favorites, especially at high-downforce circuits like Suzuka Circuit.
TOM’S and Toyota Power
As Toyota’s flagship operation, Vantelin Team TOM’S continues to rely on its enormous engineering strength and race-winning experience. Meanwhile, 2024 champion Sho Tsuboi leads the garage, while Sacha Fenestraz adds aggressive international experience to the lineup. Consequently, TOM’S possesses the speed, strategy, and operational depth needed to challenge Team Mugen on any race weekend.
Dandelion Racing’s Momentum
Meanwhile, the reigning teams’ champions Docomo Team Dandelion Racing cannot be overlooked, especially after an explosive start to the 2026 campaign. Furthermore, by creating a highly collaborative environment for Tadasuke Makino and breakout star Kakunoshin Ohta, Dandelion has proven that consistent engineering and flawless execution can seriously challenge factory powerhouse Team Mugen.
KCMG’s Development Season
Meanwhile, KCMG has undergone a major transformation ahead of the 2026 season. Most importantly, signing veteran race winner Kenta Yamashita away from Kondo Racing has immediately strengthened the team’s development program. As a result, KCMG is rapidly emerging as a dangerous dark-horse contender for podium finishes heading into the summer rounds.
Super Formula 2026 Cars, Engines and Technical Rules
These lightweight machines are among the fastest open-wheel cars outside Formula 1. The underlying technical platform of the category relies on the Dallara SF23 chassis, a masterpiece of modern aerodynamic engineering constructed from sustainable Bcomp carbon-neutral flax fibers.
Super Formula Dallara SF23 – Technical Profile
- Minimum Car Weight: 670 kg (including driver)
- Engine Configuration: 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged engine
- Maximum Power Output: 550+ horsepower
- Aerodynamics: High-downforce underbody tunnel design
- Top Speed Capability: 310+ km/h (depending on aerodynamic setup)
- Chassis: Dallara SF23 carbon-fiber monocoque
- Fuel Type: Sustainable low-carbon racing fuel
- Series: Japanese Super Formula Championship
- Performance Focus: High-speed cornering, lightweight efficiency, and Formula 1-level aerodynamics
The magic of these super formula cars rests in their exceptional power-to-weight ratio and heavily optimized underbody aerodynamics. Generating immense ground effect downforce, the SF23 permits drivers to follow each other closely through high-speed apexes without completely destroying their front tires.
Power is controlled through a mandatory fuel-flow limit ($90 \text{ kg/h}$), forcing the super formula 2026 teams and engines to focus entirely on combustion efficiency. Furthermore, the mandatory Overtake System (OTS) permits five deployments of an increased fuel flow rate ($100 \text{ kg/h}$) for up to 200 seconds per race, demanding extreme tactical awareness from the pit wall.
Super Formula 2026 Schedule and Race Calendar Overview
The layout of the super formula schedule 2026 directly affects team strategy, as the calendar heavily emphasizes grueling double-header weekends. This configuration means teams must arrive at the track with a near-flawless baseline setup.
The super formula calendar 2026 breaks down across these iconic Japanese circuits:
- Mobility Resort Motegi: Punishing stop-and-go braking zones that thoroughly stress rear traction and brake cooling mechanics.
- Autopolis International Course: Extreme elevation shifts and an aggressive track surface that completely destroys front tires.
- Suzuka International Circuit: The ultimate aerodynamic validation ground featuring high-G corners like 130R and the Degner curves.
- Fuji Speedway: A slipstreaming heaven dominated by a 1.5-kilometer straightaway and a highly technical, low-speed final sector.
- Sportsland SUGO: A narrow, old-school circuit where a single wheel off the tarmac results in a massive, race-ending accident.
Championship Predictions and Team Standings Outlook
The 2026 title fight could become one of the closest battles in recent Super Formula history. Looking closely at the early phases of the japanese super formula team standings 2026, the battle lines are drawn between Dandelion Racing and Team Mugen.
Paddock Update: Breakout factory star Kakunoshin Ohta has set the paddock on fire by sweeping both opening rounds at Mobility Resort Motegi for Docomo Team Dandelion Racing, putting massive pressure on defending champion Ayumu Iwasa.
While Mugen entered the year as the clear pre-season favorite, Dandelion’s immediate comfort with the updated Yokohama tire compounds has disrupted the status quo. In the Toyota camp, TOM’S is rapidly searching for qualifying performance gains to ensure Sho Tsuboi isn’t left fighting through the midfield clutter during the frantic mid-summer rounds. Expect Cerumo・Inging to emerge as a frequent podium spoiler due to Toshiki Oyu’s raw, unfiltered single-lap pace.
Where to Watch Super Formula 2026 Live
As international interest hits an all-time high, accessing a premium super formula live stream has been significantly simplified for global motorsport enthusiasts.
- SFgo App: The absolute gold standard for tracking the super formula tv schedule. This direct-to-consumer platform offers full live racing streams, real-time telemetry overlays, selectable onboard driver cameras, and completely unedited team radio audio feeds.
- Motorsport.tv: Provides high-definition international coverage with English-language commentary teams, ideal for keeping up with the super formula race today if you are residing outside of Japan.
- J SPORTS: The exclusive linear television home for fans located within Japan, broadcasting extensive, uninterrupted paddock coverage from green light to the final podium celebration.
Why Super Formula Is Growing Worldwide
The explosive growth of the japan super formula championship stems from its reputation as an uncompromising, pure driving category. Unlike secondary feeder formulas that use restricted, heavy machinery, Super Formula cars are nimble, ultra-responsive prototypes that reward ultimate bravery.
The direct connection to the Formula 1 grid is undeniable. Drivers like Pierre Gasly, Liam Lawson, and Ayumu Iwasa have proven to global team principals that if a young driver can adapt to the complex language barrier, the technical engineering meetings, and the extreme high-G downforce forces of Suzuka, they possess the mental and physical capacity to handle any elite racing machine on Earth. It is this elite, unfiltered racing environment that continues to captivate the global motorsport press.
FAQ Section
What teams are competing in Super Formula 2026?
A total of 12 teams are competing in the 2026 season, and, unsurprisingly, the grid is packed with both established giants and ambitious challengers. On one hand, powerhouse organizations such as Team Mugen, Vantelin Team TOM’S, and Docomo Team Dandelion Racing continue to lead the championship battle. On the other hand, highly focused operations including Wecars Team Impul, Ponos Nakajima Racing, Realize Kondo Racing, KCMG, and Cerumo・Inging are aggressively pushing for podiums. Meanwhile, smaller yet determined entries such as B-Max, Triple Tree, Rookie Racing, and Delightworks continue working to upset the established order.
Who are the Super Formula 2026 drivers?
The highly competitive 24-driver grid combines experienced champions, rising stars, and internationally recognized talent. Most notably, defending champion Ayumu Iwasa returns determined to protect his crown, while two-time title winner Tomoki Nojiri remains a constant championship threat. At the same time, current points leader Kakunoshin Ohta continues building momentum with remarkable consistency. Furthermore, experienced names such as Kamui Kobayashi add veteran leadership, whereas international talents like Sacha Fenestraz and Zak O’Sullivan bring additional global attention to the championship. In addition, prominent female racer Juju Noda continues attracting major interest from fans worldwide.
Which manufacturers power Super Formula teams?
The entire championship grid is exclusively divided between Japan’s two automotive giants: Honda and Toyota. More specifically, Honda currently powers teams such as Team Mugen, Dandelion Racing, Nakajima Racing, B-Max, ThreeBond, Triple Tree, and Delightworks. Meanwhile, Toyota supplies engines to TOM’S, Impul, Kondo Racing, Cerumo・Inging, KCMG, Rookie Racing, and Team Goh. Consequently, every race weekend becomes not only a team battle, but also a direct manufacturer war between two of Japan’s most legendary automotive brands.
What is the Honda vs Toyota rivalry in Super Formula?
The Honda vs Toyota rivalry represents one of the most intense engineering battles in global motorsport. On one side, Honda engines are widely recognized for their explosive high-RPM performance, which is especially effective at technical and high-speed circuits like Suzuka Circuit. Conversely, Toyota power units typically emphasize strong low-end torque and exceptional acceleration, making them highly effective on long-straight circuits such as Fuji Speedway. As a result, each race weekend often turns into a fascinating strategic and technical showdown between the two manufacturers.
Who are the championship favorites for 2026?
Several elite drivers have already emerged as major championship contenders. First and foremost, defending champion Ayumu Iwasa remains one of the leading favorites thanks to his exceptional consistency and raw speed. Meanwhile, current points leader Kakunoshin Ohta has rapidly established himself as a serious title threat through aggressive yet controlled performances. Additionally, 2024 champion Sho Tsuboi continues to strengthen Vantelin Team TOM’S’ championship challenge with his vast experience and racecraft. Consequently, the title fight appears incredibly close heading deeper into the season.
What cars are used in Super Formula?
Every team on the grid utilizes the identical Dallara SF23 chassis, thereby ensuring an extremely competitive spec-series environment. Importantly, the SF23 features carbon-neutral flax fiber construction, advanced ground-effect aerodynamics, and a lightweight 670 kg minimum weight including the driver. Furthermore, the car produces more than 550 horsepower, allowing it to achieve astonishing cornering speeds and lap times. As a result, the SF23 is widely considered one of the fastest and most technically advanced open-wheel cars outside of Formula 1.
Where can fans watch Super Formula 2026 live?
Fans across the world have several viewing options available throughout the season. International audiences can watch every live session through the official SFgo subscription platform or via Motorsport.tv, both of which provide English-language commentary. Meanwhile, domestic viewers inside Japan can continue following the championship live on the J SPORTS television network. Consequently, global accessibility for Super Formula has expanded significantly in recent years.
Is Super Formula faster than Formula 2?
Yes, Super Formula cars are significantly faster than FIA Formula 2 machinery in overall lap performance. Primarily, this advantage comes from the championship’s superior aerodynamic downforce, lighter minimum weight, and more aggressive engine performance. Therefore, Super Formula cars generate remarkably high cornering speeds while also maintaining exceptional straight-line pace. In fact, the category is widely regarded as the second-fastest open-wheel championship in the world behind Formula 1.
Which tracks are on the 2026 calendar?
The 2026 calendar continues to feature some of Japan’s most iconic permanent racing circuits. Specifically, the championship visits Mobility Resort Motegi, Autopolis International Racing Course, Suzuka Circuit, Fuji Speedway, and Sportsland SUGO. Consequently, the schedule combines high-speed straights, technical corners, and dramatic elevation changes that thoroughly test both drivers and engineers.
What is the Super Formula entry list for 2026?
The official 2026 entry list consists of 24 registered cars operating under a fixed number allocation system designed to improve championship consistency and fan recognition. For example, defending champion Ayumu Iwasa carries the prestigious #1 plate, while Tomoki Nojiri continues with #16 and Sho Tsuboi races under #36. Therefore, the numbering system allows fans, teams, and officials to track the championship battle more efficiently throughout the demanding 12-round season.
Conclusion
With elite teams, world-class drivers, and the legendary Honda vs Toyota rivalry continuing to intensify, the Super Formula 2026 season is already shaping up to become one of the most competitive eras in Japanese motorsport history. Furthermore, the current campaign leaves absolutely no room for operational mistakes, because the demanding double-header calendar format instantly punishes any team that loses focus for even a fraction of a second. As a result, consistency, strategy, and flawless execution are becoming just as important as outright speed.
Meanwhile, as the Super Formula 2026 teams prepare to tackle iconic circuits such as Suzuka Circuit and Fuji Speedway, the intense engineering battle behind the scenes will ultimately dictate who reaches the podium. In addition, tire management, aerodynamic efficiency, and race strategy are expected to play an even greater role as the championship fight tightens. Therefore, fans should keep their SFgo apps ready, closely follow the latest Super Formula updates, and prepare for an extraordinary season filled with pure, uncompromising open-wheel racing pushed to its absolute limit.
Authoritative Reference Links
- Race Reports & Manufacturer Breakdown | SUPER FORMULA Official Website
- Japanese Championship Super Formula Overview – Motorsport.com
- Super Formula Standings, News and Features – Autosport
- Honda Racing Super Formula Teams & Drivers – Honda.Racing
- Super Formula Championship Hub & Roster Tracking – Rushsync
