Manson named in new G Force Driver Development Program

G Force Engineering, led by President and CEO Masaru Okazawa, is set to launch the G FORCE DRIVER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM aimed at nurturing junior drivers to hone their talents as racing drivers and step up to a higher level of international racing stage.

In the 2024 program, three drivers have been selected: Sebastian Manson from New Zealand, Jesse Lacey from Australia, and Michael Sauter from Switzerland. They will compete in the 2024 FORMULA REGIONAL JAPANESE CHAMPIONSHIP (FRJ).

While the three drivers will be divided into two teams for entry, Masaru Okazawa, representing G Force Engineering, will take the helm as supervisor, drawing from his extensive experience as a member of Team Goh in numerous international races including the Le Mans 24 Hours, as well as his achievements in domestic top-tier categories like SUPER GT and SUPER FORMULA.

Driving coaching will be provided by Seiji Ara, a Le Mans winner who continues to excel in events like SUPER GT, while Hiroshi Yuchi, a renowned racing car designer and engineer in Japan, will serve as the chief engineer. Leveraging exceptional engineering expertise developed in international racing, G Force Engineering aims to provide various approaches to equip teenage drivers competing in mid-level formula races with the necessary elements for advancement.

The FRJ season will kick off with pre-season joint testing at Suzuka on February 21, where Sebastian and Jesse will make their debut on Japanese circuits. Two weeks later, on March 9-10, the FRJ opening weekend will feature three races at Suzuka Circuit, marking the beginning of the 2024 season and setting the stage for Sebastian, Jesse, and Michael’s battles on Japanese circuits.

“I am extremely excited for the amazing opportunity that has been presented,” said Sebastian Manson.

“Japan has always been a country I have wanted to experience. I believe they have some of the best tracks in the world. I can’t wait to compete in Formula Regional Japan. This will be the highlight of my career so far. I’m looking forward to embarking on it and working with G Force Engineering.”