Calderon to become Super Formula’s first female driver in 2020

Tatiana Calderon will become the first woman to race in the Japanese Super Formula championship after announcing her move into the series for the 2020 season.

Calderon, 26, will race for the Honda-powered Drago Corse with ThreeBond team through the upcoming campaign, having lost her Formula 2 drive with BWT Arden at the end of last season.

“I’m very happy to continue to race at a very high level in 2020 and take on the challenge of Super Formula. Everything will be new for me, which means there will be a lot to learn, but that motivates me as it will help me to continue developing,” said Calderon.

“It’s a new country, a different language, new tracks and a new car, which seems to be massively quick. I thank Ryo Michigami, ThreeBond and Honda for their trust and I’m glad to count on them for my debut in Japan.”

Calderon made her debut in F2 last year with BWT Arden, but failed to score any points, recording a best finish of 13th on four occasions as she balanced her racing duties with a development role for the Alfa Romeo Formula 1 team.

Calderon lost her seat following Arden’s exit from F2 and the takeover of the entry by HWA Racelab for 2020, who signed Giuliano Alesi and Artem Markelov.

The Colombian was exploring options in both single-seater racing and sports cars, and will appear in the Rolex 24 at Daytona endurance race at the end of this month.

The deal also marks the return of Michigami’s Drago Corse team to Super Formula after four years away.

“I’m happy to be back racing with ThreeBond Drago Corse pursuing my desire to be a team that constantly strives for new challenges and making history,” said Michigami.

“We would like to thank ThreeBond Co., Ltd. for this opportunity and everyone who has made an effort to make this possible. Expect the Girl Power of Three Bond Drago Corse and Tatiana Calderon in the 2020 season!”