Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix: the inside track

Japanese fans inundate the stands when a local driver or team occupies the grid. Their passion runs high but the Suzuka Circuit speaks for itself and makes the Japanese Grand Prix special all on its own.

When Second Place is worst than Last

30 September 2011

Sebastian Vettel’s incurable yearn for another Formula 1 world title is all but a done deal. He only needs one more point to successfully defended his crown and once again be king of Formula 1 for another year. However there is only one small problem. There are an astonishing five races... Read more »

Japanese GP: the Title Decider
11 June 2010
The Japanese Grand Prix has traditional been the second to the last race on the Formula 1 calendar. And it has always been a lightning rod for both the diver’s and constructor’s championship titles... Read more »
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Singapore’s F1 Bill to Rock Race Weekend
19 September 2011
The 2011 season is all but over, with Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull Racing rather predictably running away with it as we edge ever closer to the final race of the season. With only six... Read more »
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Tips for the Japanese Grand Prix

1The JR Kaisuko Mie train from Nagoya to Suzuka circuit is packed on race day! Expect to be pushed in by train attendants.
2In unreserved seating many fans actually leave once race starts to avoid the return train frenzy.
3The Suzuka circuit is often surrounded by thick fog and rain, bring protection.
4‘H area’ reserved seating on the straight provides the best view for both sides of the track.

Information & History of Japanese Grand Prix

Information
Japan has an automotive culture that can rival that of any western nation and local manufacturer Honda has participated in the Formula 1 World Championship in a variety of roles over the years. Their inspired and differing approach to design can be seen in the Suzuka Circuit. One would not imagine that the Japanese Grand Prix could take place within a fair ground, but the figure eight layout creates a compact lap that is exciting to drive on. Formula 1 cars navigate challenging and progressive corners while simultaneously contending with elevation changes.

History
Suzuka Circuit and Fuji Speedway have shared the Japanese Grand Prix since its inception in 1976, though Grand Prix were held involving other series before that. Following fatal accidents in those first years, Formula 1 did not visit Japan from 1978 to 1986. Owned by Honda and Toyota respectively, the hosting rights can be seen as part of the rivalry between these two automotive giants. Suzuka has hosted more Formula 1 races than Fuji Speedway and the two tracks planned to swap the event annually until Fuji withdrew from the deal in 2009 due to financial strictures.