Dandelion Racing Dominates Early 2025 Super Formula Season
Kameoka City, Japan — Dandelion Racing has kicked off the 2025 Super Formula season with an impressive four consecutive victories, securing wins at both Suzuka and Motegi. Drivers Tadasuke Makino and Kakunoshin Ohta each claimed two victories, further solidifying the team’s dominance, having now won six races in a row, dating back to the 2024 season.
The team’s recent success mirrors a historical benchmark, as the last time a team won six consecutive races was Nakajima Racing in 2000. That year also marked the last instance of a team opening a season with four straight victories.
Makino and Ohta currently hold a 20-point lead in the drivers’ championship over Ayumu Iwasa of Team Mugen. Dandelion’s early dominance has given them a commanding advantage in the teams’ standings, with more than double the points of their nearest competitor.
Founded in 1993, Dandelion Racing has transformed from its humble beginnings into a competitive force in Japanese motorsport, operating with a lean team of just 25 permanent staff. Their history in motorsport includes struggles in All-Japan Formula 3 and the Japan Touring Car Championship before entering Formula Nippon in 1999.
Key milestones in the team’s journey include the recruitment of chief engineer Norimitsu Yoshida in 2001 and a significant partnership with the Sauber F1 team for technical support. Their first victory came in 2003, paving the way for a successful title bid the following year. Dandelion has since built a strong legacy with multiple titles, including a teams’ title acquired in 2012.
Muraoka’s leadership has focused on proving that privateer teams can still excel in an increasingly manufacturer-dominated landscape. "What we are trying to demonstrate is that privateer teams can still do great things," he stated, emphasizing the importance of teams like his in maintaining the sport’s competitive integrity.
Despite their location in Kameoka City, away from the main motorsport hub, Dandelion has fostered a loyal and dedicated staff, which has contributed to their unique competitive edge. The ongoing season is expected to present challenges, particularly as internal competition between Makino and Ohta intensifies. This dynamic may become a focal point as both drivers vie for the championship.
With two 1-2 finishes already achieved for the season at Motegi, Dandelion Racing is on an inspiring trajectory. Muraoka’s ambition for the team to clinch both the drivers’ and teams’ titles in the same year is now within reach.
