Suzuka Circuit Secures Future in F1: Five-Year Extension Confirmed for Japanese Grand Prix
Formula One has officially confirmed a five-year extension for the Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit, securing its place on the F1 calendar until 2029. This announcement highlights Suzuka’s legacy in the sport and Formula One’s commitment to sustainability and optimized scheduling.
Key Takeaways:
- Suzuka Circuit Extension: The Suzuka Circuit, with its iconic layout featuring the ‘S’ Curves and 130R corner, is now confirmed to host the Formula 1 World Championship until 2029. This extension not only celebrates the circuit’s historical significance but also delights fans and drivers alike.
- Calendar and Environmental Considerations: Beginning in 2024, the Japanese Grand Prix will be held in April, strategically positioned between the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix. This rescheduling is part of Formula 1’s initiative to geographically optimize the race calendar and reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
- Fan Engagement and Sustainability Efforts: The 2023 Japanese Grand Prix witnessed a remarkable turnout of over 222,000 fans, indicating Formula 1’s escalating popularity in Japan. This fanbase reflects the sport’s growing global appeal and the success of its sustainability efforts.
The renewal of the Suzuka Circuit’s place in the Formula 1 calendar is a testament to its pivotal role in the sport’s history and its vision for the future. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed his satisfaction with this continued partnership, saying:
“Suzuka is a special circuit and part of the fabric of the sport, so I am delighted that F1 will continue to race there until at least 2029. As we prepare to return to Japan earlier than usual this season, I would like to express my huge gratitude to the promoter and team at Honda MobilityLand for supporting our effort towards greater calendar rationalisation as we look to make the sport more sustainable.
“Our fans in Japan embrace Formula 1 with a unique passion and we look forward to working with the promoter to give fans the experience they deserve for years to come.”
Similarly, Tsuyoshi Saito, President and Representative Director of Honda Mobilityland Corporation, emphasized the cooperative efforts for the event’s success in the new spring season:
“I am pleased that we will be able to continue hosting the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit from 2025 onwards. I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Stefano Domenicali and other related Formula 1 members.
“We aim to create a sustainable future and currently we are preparing to welcome many fans for the 2024 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix in April, the first time the event will be held in the spring season. We will continue to work together with the local communities and government agencies, including Mie Prefecture and Suzuka City, so that Suzuka can continue to be loved by fans around the world and contribute to the prosperity of motorsports culture and industrial development.”
This announcement not only reaffirms Suzuka’s storied place in Formula 1 history but also aligns with the sport’s broader objectives of sustainability and fan engagement, reinforcing its commitment to a future where the excitement of racing and environmental consciousness go hand in hand.
