The Curcuit
Suzuka International Racetrack
2003 Results
Race
Pole
History
The first Formula 1 Grand Prix in Japan was held at the Fuji Speedway in 1976. After the death of a marshal when Gilles Villeneuve's Ferrari somersaulted into a restricted area after a collision with Ronnie Peterson, F1 did not return to Japan for 10 years.
In 1987, the Japanese Grand Prix returned to the Formula 1 calendar at the Suzuka International Racetrack. Designed by John Hugenholz, Suzuka was built as a test track for Honda in 1962. It is a very tough and technical circuit. In the shape of a figure eight, Suzuka has a variety of fast and slow corners. Although overtaking has been made virtually impossible because the chicane before the pits (the best passing opportunity) was tightened in 1991, it is still loved by all the drivers.
The Japanese Grand Prix has become known for excitement and controversy. Its traditional place at the end of the season means that there have been a great number of Championship crowns being decided at this race. In the 19 Japanese Grands Prix (1976-1977; 1987-2003) 11 have seen the title decided (1976, 1987-1991, 1996, 1998-2000, and 2003), with 5 (1976, 1996, 1998-1999 and 2003) being Championship deciders.
The 2004 season sees the Brazilian Grand Prix becoming the last race of the season in place of the traditional Japanese Grand Prix which is now the penultimate race.
Previous Winners
Japanese Grand Prix