S5000 and the new Australian Formula Open series will join forces to promote ‘wings and slicks’ racing progression in Australia in 2023. 

S5000 will offer key prizes to the winner of the all-new series, which combines Formula 3 cars, Formula Renault / Toyota racers, Formula 4 cars and other ‘wings and slicks’ racers in one big field.

The 2023 Australian Formula Open (AFO) Champion will receive a fully funded test in a Tim Macrow Racing-prepared S5000 and free entry to their first round of any subsequent S5000 campaign.

The pathway is designed to promote progression through the categories and to forge closer links between to the two main Formula categories in Australia.

AFO is endorsed by Motorsport Australia, who award the prestigious Gold Star award to the S5000 champion at the conclusion of each season.

“We have worked hard to build Australian Formula Open in the last six months and had a successful debut at Phillip Island late last year,” said category founder, six-time S5000 winner and Gold Star champion, Tim Macrow.

“Our discussions with (S5000 promoter) ARG were about trying to boost the whole open wheel landscape in Australia so there is a logical progression from one to another.

“It’s all operating at under the one banner with Motorsport Australia and there’s now a clear pathway from state level open wheel racing right through to major events like the Adelaide 500.

“S5000 has already proved its position as a place where drivers can progress into top level categories anywhere, so going from AFO into that makes all the sense in the world.

“I’m excited to support it via Tim Macrow Racing and we’re really pleased ARG has agreed to support the plans with the testing and free entry to the first round as well.”

Starting in March, the 2023 Australian Formula Open calendar will feature on the AGI NSW Formula Race car bill for rounds 1 and 2, with AFO events then taking in the Asian Super Trofeo event at The Bend, Motorsport Australia Trophy Series at Queensland Raceway, Speed Series round at Sandown and will again headline the 2023 Island Magic event.

The S5000 Australian Drivers’ Championship kicks off at AWC Race Tasmania in February before a seven-round national tour that concludes at the 2023 VALO Adelaide 500.

“As S5000 continues to establish itself in Australia, creating progression into the category was important,” S5000 Category Manager Ben McMellan said.

“Australian Formula Open will be well-run and will give drivers the skills they need to race at the pointy-end in S5000. We’re looking forward to working closely with the AFO team and Tim to build the relationship this year.

“It’s a good thing for open wheel racing in Australia and our aim is to build that moving forward.”