Williams F1 reserve driver Luke Browning has walked away from a huge crash in Super Formula testing at the Suzuka circuit in Japan.
On a very wet day at the legendary Japanese track, the British driver aquaplaned and lost the car at 130R. His car flipped and eventually landed between the barrier and some fencing. Thankfully the 24-year-old was uninjured.
Following a strong 2025 F2 season where he finished 4th in points, Browning will compete in Super Formula this year. He is driving for Kondo Racing.
A valuable lesson learned says Luke Browning following his nasty Super Formula testing crash at Suzuka
Speaking to Motorsport.com Japan, Luke Browning conceded he should have boxed instead of staying out. He explained the rain intensified during that particular run.
“Unfortunately, it was raining at the time and I aquaplaned and crashed. It was a bit out of my control at the time.
“Looking back, I should have returned to the pits when the rain got heavier. The lesson here is that everything is a learning experience. I’m sure I can use what I learned today for the rest of my career.”
Browning was also extremely thankful for the HANS support device that saved him from a far worse scenario regarding his health.
“Luckily I landed on the hay and didn’t hit the barrier, so my body is totally fine.
“HANS is amazing. I think it saved my neck. I’m really grateful.”
Speaking in Abu Dhabi last year to Pit Debrief and other media outlets, Browning explained to this publication about his first Super Formula test in December at Suzuka. Eventually it would lead to an announcement of him doing a full season over there.
“Yeah, so we thought what’s the closest thing to Formula One that I can go and test in the off-season and funnily enough it’s Suzuka especially the only track that Formula One races.
“So it was just Williams’ idea to get me some track time on the Formula One circuit and something close to Formula One machinery.
“So yeah, that’s the reason for it.”
All being well, Luke Browning is due to do more FP1 running for Williams in the 2026 F1 season.
