| Date | April 4th-6th |
|---|---|
| Circuit Length | 5.807 km |
| Laps | 53 |
| Lap Record | 1:30.983 – Lewis Hamilton (2019) |
| Previous Winner | Max Verstappen – Red Bull (2024) |
History of the F1 Japan GP
The Suzuka Circuit was built in 1962, spearheaded by Soichiro Honda, the visionary founder of Honda Motor Company. Determined to elevate Honda’s reputation as a leader in the automotive industry, Soichiro decided the company needed a dedicated test track.
He enlisted Dutch designer John Hugenholtz to create what would become the iconic Suzuka layout. The track’s signature ‘crossover’ design, where it loops over and under itself, was initially planned to feature three such intersections—a concept that, while ambitious, didn’t make it to the final version.
Although Suzuka is now a favorite among fans and drivers, it joined the Formula 1 calendar relatively late. The track hosted its first Grand Prix in 1987, becoming a pivotal venue in F1 history.
That debut weekend is particularly memorable for Nigel Mansell, who crashed during qualifying, forcing him to withdraw from the Formula 1 race. This incident handed the F1 drivers’ championship title to his rival, Nelson Piquet, adding drama to an already thrilling season.
Today, Suzuka remains a standout circuit for F1 Grand Prix teams, blending technical challenges with high-speed thrills. As the F1 season unfolds and fans closely follow the F1 standings, Suzuka is sure to deliver another unforgettable chapter in Formula 1 history.
Circuit Specifications
- Corners: 18
- DRS Zones: 1
- Pit Stop Strategies: Teams typically adopt a two-stop strategy due to Suzuka’s high-energy demands and tire degradation
- Most Used Tires: Generally, teams use the medium and hard compounds
You’d be hard-pressed to find a racing driver who doesn’t adore Suzuka.
This high-speed circuit is a true test of skill, featuring iconic sections like the flowing ‘S’ Curves, the precision-demanding Degners, and the adrenaline-pumping 130R—each a standout moment on a track full of challenges.
As one of Formula 1’s most legendary venues, Suzuka has earned its place in history. And let’s not forget its unique crossover design, a rare and undeniably cool feature.
It’s no wonder that the greatest F1 drivers of all time, including Nigel Mansell, have faced some of their most memorable moments here.
For Mansell, Suzuka is forever linked to the dramatic 1987 weekend, where a crash during qualifying not only ended his race but also handed the championship to his rival, Nelson Piquet.
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F1 Japan GP FAQs
- Who has won the most races at Suzuka?
Michael Schumacher holds the record for the most wins at Suzuka, with 6 victories.
- What is the average speed of the Suzuka Circuit?
The average speed at the Suzuka Circuit is approximately 230 km/h. - Which team has the most wins at the Suzuka Grand Prix?
Ferrari and McLaren have both won the Japanese Grand Prix 7 times each.