Round 4 of the Formula 1 World Championship and fight for glory takes F1 north to Japan, to race around the twisty and technical Suzuka Circuit to host the Japanese Grand Prix.
Located in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture, Japan, this circuit is famed for its challenging layout, rich history, and the passionate fanbase it attracts. Hosting the Japanese Grand Prix, Suzuka has been the scene of many memorable moments in Formula 1. From championship deciders to dramatic races that have etched themselves into the sport’s history.
Overview of the Suzuka Circuit
Embed from Getty ImagesAs a test facility, the Suzuka Circuit was originally built by the Honda Motor Company in 1962, to test the new Honda motors. A Japanese Grand Prix was first held here in 1987, and since then it has gained an international reputation for high-speed, high-stakes racing. With its figure-eight layout, this track stands out from the rest of the F1 calendar thanks to its unique overpass where the road crosses over itself and is one of only two circuits on the calendar with this feature.
Track Layout
Embed from Getty Images53 laps, a clockwise track, the Suzuka Circuit creates a recipe for 307 kilometres of on-track action. It is a road that features 18 turns, including S curves, Degner curves and Spoon curves, in addition to 130R, each of which presents its unique challenge to the driver. And only consists of one DRS Zone down the start/finish straight.
Iconic Features
Embed from Getty ImagesFigure-Eight Layout: Suzuka’s figure-eight layout is unmatched in Formula 1, offering a blend of technical complexity and high-speed challenge that is revered by drivers. 130R and Spoon Curve are among the most famous corners in motorsports. 130R is known for its high-speed, full-throttle challenge, testing the limits of car aerodynamics and driver bravery.
S Curves, a of rapid directional changes from Turn 3 to Turn 7 that test a car’s balance and a driver’s skill in quick succession. Emphasizing the importance of rhythm and precision. As well as technical variety. The Suzuka circuit’s variety of corners, from slow-speed hairpins to high-speed sweeps, requires a well-balanced car setup. Making it a comprehensive test of a team’s and driver’s capabilities.
Memorable Races around the Suzuka Circuit
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Suzuka Circuit has been the backdrop for many pivotal moments in many Formula 1 records. Together with numerous championship deciders. Terrific among those is the extreme rivalry between Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost, which reached its zenith in 1989 and 1990 with collisions that decided the championship consequences. These moments, amongst others, contribute to the circuit’s mythical reputation inside the game.
Live Timings
Embed from Getty ImagesFriday (5th April)
3:00 am – Japanese Grand Prix Practice One – (Session begins at 3:30 am)
6:45 am – Japanese Grand Prix Practice Two – (Session begins at 7:00 am)
Saturday (6th April)
3:15 am – Japanese Grand Prix Practice Three – (Session begins at 3:30 am)
6:45 am – Japanese Grand Prix Qualifying – (Session begins at 7:00 am)
Sunday (7th April)
4:30 am – Japanese Grand Prix – (Session begins at 6:00 am)
If you would like to learn more news about the world of Formula 1? “German Precision: Nico Hülkenberg’s Prospects with Audi” or “Could Max Verstappen Potentially Leave Red Bull Racing?”
Image Credit: RedBull Content Pool