Japanese GP to remain at Suzuka on long-term deal

Formula 1 has announced a five-year extension with Suzuka to continue hosting the Japanese Grand Prix until at least 2029.

The race will move to a new slot in April this year between Australia and China, as part of F1's efforts to regionalise the calendar and become net zero by 2030.

Since joining the calendar, Suzuka has traditionally held its race in September or October, with the looming switch to April coinciding with cherry blossom season in Japan, which will create a new backdrop to the race.

There had been recent reports that Osaka was preparing a bid to host a Grand Prix, but this was rejected with driver-favourite Suzuka extending its deal.

In 2023, the race weekend was attended by 222,000 fans, a climb from 200,000 for F1's 2022 return after three years away due to COVID-19 and travel restrictions.

Domenicali: Japan fans embrace F1 with unique passion

"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," explained F1 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."

Tsuyoshi Saito the President and Representative Director of Honda Mobilityland Corporation added: "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."