Split Rounds Bring New Challenges as Formula Hololive International Heads to Phillip Island and Buriram

15 January - The 2024-25 Formula Hololive International season enters its eighth round with split races at Phillip Island (Split A) and Buriram (Split B). With only five races remaining in the season, these events are poised to significantly impact championship standings and team dynamics. The two iconic circuits, each offering unique challenges, promise high-stakes action as drivers compete for crucial points.

Phillip Island’s Split A race, originally scheduled for Friday morning, has been rescheduled to Thursday noon AEDT due to the host’s prior commitments. Known for its sweeping corners and picturesque coastal setting, Phillip Island will see Krzysztof Salmonman make his debut as a guest driver. Representing AZKi, the Hololive GT3 standout is expected to bring calculated aggression and steady pace to the competitive Split A field. Joining the action is Mono Zettarou, a promising young driver from the Philippines, who replaces Juani Castanto in the Ouro Kronii car for his debut race.

The Buriram SP, part of Split B, takes place at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand. With its fast straights and technical corners, Buriram will challenge drivers’ adaptability. However, the race is under threat of delay due to logistical issues, with updates anticipated closer to race day. Mohamed Khashiu, a guest driver representing Tsunomaki Watame, brings a reputation for serviceable driving for the Maldivian.

Championship leader Ryan Kagawa, representing Nerissa Ravencroft, has been moved to Split B following the departures of Dag Patterson and Bernardo Santiago after their respective teams’ retirements at the Malaysia GP. Kagawa will aim to continue his dominant season in an unfamiliar grid.

The Malaysia GP, held last month, marked an emotional farewell for Ceres Fauna, Watson Amelia, and Juani Castanto. Patterson secured a poignant victory in Fauna’s final race, solidifying her legacy as the most successful Hololive member in Formula Hololive International. Meanwhile, Castanto’s tenure ended with an unfortunate crash, and Santiago delivered a spirited 15th-place finish in Amelia’s swan song event. These departures have reshaped the grid, with new drivers stepping in to carry the torch.

The split rounds introduce added complexity with varying weather conditions and shortened race distances likely to play a role. Phillip Island’s high-speed layout will test drivers’ bravery through fast corners, while Buriram’s tight technical sections will emphasize precision and adaptability. Strategy will be critical in both events as drivers contend with tire wear, fuel loads, and unpredictable weather.

Guest drivers Salmonman and Khashiu bring an element of unpredictability to the rounds. Salmonman, a consistent performer in Hololive GT3, is expected to challenge for a podium at Phillip Island. Khashiu, with his aggressive style, will look to disrupt the competition at Buriram. Meanwhile, Mono Zettarou’s debut provides an opportunity for the young driver to make an immediate impact for Ouro Kronii.

At the top of the standings, Ryan Kagawa maintains a comfortable lead with 1,283 points, followed by Vestia Zeta’s Javier Lusby at 1,202 points. Tomas Ferreira and Joshua Azurid will aim to close the gap, while Dan Evans, riding high after his stunning second-place finish at Sepang, could emerge as a spoiler in the championship race. The Phillip Island SP kicks off the action tomorrow, with Buriram SP tentatively set for Friday evening. With championship battles heating up and fresh faces on the grid, fans can look forward to high drama and thrilling performances as the season hurtles toward its conclusion.