The iconic Suzuka circuit has secured its status as the host of the Japanese Grand Prix until at least 2029, following the signing of a five-year contract extension with Formula 1. Despite interest from Osaka in hosting a street race, Suzuka prevailed in maintaining its place on the F1 calendar.
F1 president Stefano Domenicali expressed the uniqueness of Suzuka, describing it as “special.” The Japanese Grand Prix will undergo a scheduling change this year, moving to April from its previous autumn slot. This adjustment aligns with F1’s sustainability goals, aiming to achieve net-zero carbon by 2030 by reducing global freight travel distances.
Suzuka, renowned as one of the most challenging tracks for drivers, will retain its esteemed position in the F1 calendar. Domenicali emphasized the significance of Suzuka in the sport, stating, “Suzuka is part of the fabric of the sport, so I am delighted that F1 will continue to race there until at least 2029.”
Owned by Honda, Suzuka first hosted F1 in 1987 and has become legendary for its high-speed corners and the dramatic events it has witnessed, including the contentious title deciders between Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost in 1989 and 1990, both culminating in collisions between the two rivals. The upcoming Japanese Grand Prix is scheduled as the fourth race of the season, taking place from April 5 to 7, positioned between the Australian and Chinese events.