Hiyu Yamakoshi has replaced Nico Varrone at Van Amersfoort Racing (VAR) for F2’s trip to Baku, Azerbaijan, across 24-26 September 2026.
Yamakoshi’s promotion came after Varrone unexpectedly decided to leave F2 after just 11 rounds in a difficult rookie season, during which his best race finish of fourth came in the Miami Sprint, but he has collected just one point across the last eight rounds and sat 20th in the championship.
“After an intense year, we decided together with my team not to continue with the Formula 2 calendar with the Van Amersfoort team,” explained the 25-year-old Argentinian on his decision to leave F2 at this stage of the season with three rounds left.
VAR consequently opted to promote Yamakoshi for the trip to Baku after the 19-year-old finished ninth in F3 as their highest-placed driver, and Yamakoshi is excited for his opportunity to step up to F2.
“I’m very happy to have this opportunity to make my Formula 2 debut with VAR. I’ve been with the team since F4, so stepping into F2 together makes this a very special moment. I’m looking forward to learning as much as possible throughout the weekend, working with the team and making the most of the experience.”
VAR Team Principal, Brad Joyce added that he is “pleased” to provide Yamakoshi with a chance to graduate into F2 after he achieved three podiums in his rookie F3 season.
“He has made strong progress this season and has shown his pace in F3, with several strong results throughout his rookie campaign. Having worked with Hiyu for three years, we know his approach and his ability to learn. This will be a new challenge for him, and we’re looking forward to working with him throughout the weekend.”
Joyce also paid tribute to Varrone as he concluded: “At the same time, we would like to thank Nico for his work with the team this season. He has been a valued member of our F2 line-up, and we have really enjoyed having him as part of the team.
“Coming from sports car racing, the move to Formula 2 was a significant change, and Nico adapted very well to the demands of single-seater racing. He took on that challenge and showed that he could adapt to Formula 2 in a very short period of time. We wish him all the best for the next steps in his career.”
This announcement comes days after F2 announced that there will be a bonus Qualifying session and Feature Race in Baku.
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