Honda-backed Japanese Naoki Yamamoto will take part in a Formula 1 grand prix weekend for the first time in his career when he drives a Toro Rosso in Friday's opening free practice session at his home Suzuka circuit. Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso are powered by Honda and Suzuka is owned by the Japanese manufacturer. The last Japanese to race in Formula One was Kamui Kobayashi with now-defunct Caterham in 2014. Yamamoto, 31, is reigning champion in Japanese Super Formula and the Super GT touring car series, where he has partnered 2009 Formula One world champion Jenson Button. His age rules him out, however, as a realistic race prospect for a team that develops and feeds young talent to the main...
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