Formula 1 has confirmed that the Japanese Grand Prix will continue to be held at Suzuka through the 2029 season.
Formula 1 first visited Suzuka in 1987 and it has been absent on only four occasions since, when Fuji Speedway hosted Japan’s event in 2007/08, and when the pandemic forced its cancellation in 2020/21.
Formula 1’s Japanese Grand Prix will this year switch from its post-summer date to a spring slot, as the fourth round, as part of the championship’s long-term ambition to regionalise its schedule.
Suzuka’s contract expired at the end of 2024 but on Friday a five-year agreement was announced to secure Japan’s event at the iconic circuit.
“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,” said Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“As we prepare to return to Japan earlier than usual this season, l 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.”
Suzuka is one of the most-loved venue on the current schedule and its unique figure-of-eight circuit is lauded by drivers.
“I am pleased that we will be able to continue hosting the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit from 2025 onwards,” said Honda Mobilityland President Tsuyoshi Saito.
“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.”