Matsushita makes MP Motorsport move

Nobuharu Matsushita will remain on the Formula 2 grid for 2020 in a move to MP Motorsport.

The 26-year-old partners Felipe Drugovich at the Dutch team this season to complete its all-new line-up in what will mark Matsushita’s fifth campaign in the F1 feeder series, counting back to his GP2 Series stint.

Despite spending 2018 in Super Formula, the Japanese driver impressed on his return to F2 last year by taking sixth place in the drivers’ championship with the highlight of two Feature race wins plus three additional podiums and one pole position.

“I’m excited to join MP for a fresh assault on the FIA F2 Championship,” Matsushita said. “I’m convinced that together we will be able to create a package that will surprise all our rivals on the grid.

“Also, I hope that Felipe’s raw speed will spur me on to extract the best from myself in my efforts to add more victories to my FIA F2 win tally.”

“It’s great news that Nobu will be part of our team in 2020,” MP’s team manager Sander Dorsman added. “In the past seasons, you could always count on him being up there fighting for the points and the wins, and I’m certain that his experience will help the team thrive in its search for success.

“He’s won in every F2 season that he competed in, and of course I’m hoping for this trend to continue in 2020! Also, Nobu will be a formidable yardstick for Felipe going into his debut season in FIA F2.”