Layout: Actual
When was the track built?
The project started in the 1960s and it was aiming at bringing NASCAR, with an USA-style oval.
Plans were serious but, after a negative feedback from Stirling Moss, they changed and a more conventional road course, even with a 30° banking first corner, was built in 1965.
After several fatal crashes, the layout was modified and in 1976 hosted the first Japanese F1 race.
Replaced by Suzuka it has been used for local races until 2005, when Toyota bought it and completely refurbished it by hand of Tilke.
It has hosted two more races before leaving the calendar; it will be added to the rotation.
When was its first Grand Prix?
Japan has 2 places in the Continental and 1 in the World series; this is one of the eight circuits that will rotate for those spots.
The first race, on the original layout, in 1976 was won by Mario Andretti’s Lotus-Ford, who also started from pole.
What’s the circuit like?
The new version is an ultra-modern facility, with a layout which broadly recalled the original, except the final corner that is now replaced by a low-speed arena-like section.
The long main straight has been kept and the circuit is still extremely fast up until turn 10, where the new area begins.
Also due to the unpredictable weather it has been the scene of many unforgettable races.
Where is it located? In Oyama, on the foothills of Mount Fuji, in the Shizuoka Prefecture. The nearest major international airport is Tokyo’s Haneda around 100km away. (+ 35°22’14”, +138°55’39”)
All Along The Racetrack 