What makes the Japanese Grand Prix special – and why you should see it

The Japanese Grand Prix has been one of the standout races on the Formula 1 calendar for over half a century and is an event both loved and respected by drivers and fans.

First held at the Fuji Speedway in 1976, Suzuka began race-hosting honours in 1987, and the circuit has since produced plenty of F1 folklore over the years since – from clashes between legends to the crowning of champions.

The historic event continues to be special, and the 2026 edition will see Suzuka host the third race weekend of the season on 29 March.

A race worshipped by drivers

Suzuka holds a particular place in the hearts and minds of F1 drivers. Fernando Alonso has previously said: “Suzuka is one of the best circuits in the world. It’s a magic place”, while Esteban Ocon also gave a glowing review that sums up the general attitude: “To drive, it is just pure pleasure.”

Its distinctive layout enthrals – Suzuka is an old-school test of fast, flowing and unforgiving sectors. The ‘S’ Curves characterise Sector 1, while the Degner corners have caught many drivers out. The hairpin at Turn 11 needs to be taken with care too, before the tricky double left-hander Spoon precedes the famous white-knuckle ride that is 130R.

Away from the track itself, the unique atmosphere only adds to the experience. Drivers have regularly spoken of the passion of the Japanese fans, making Suzuka a race weekend that everyone looks forward to.

When is the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix?

The 2026 Japanese Grand Prix weekend begins on Friday, 27 March with the F1 cars on track for Free Practice 1 and Free Practice 2, followed by Free Practice 3 and Qualifying on Saturday, 28 March. The Grand Prix itself takes place on Sunday, 29 March at 1400 local time.

Check out the RACE HUB to see when each F1 session starts in your local time zone, wherever you are in the world.

What’s so great about Suzuka Circuit?

Originally a test track for Honda, Suzuka has become the heart of Japanese motorsport, and the circuit has witnessed countless iconic moments and climactic championship showdowns.

It is the only figure-eight layout on the F1 calendar, with the circuit crossing over itself via an overpass. Drivers are often right on the limit throughout the lap, creating exciting racing – plus the weather can be unpredictable for strategists.

Fans attending Suzuka have built a reputation for creative outfits and homemade banners that showcase their immense respect and support for all drivers, making a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

The weekend schedule is full of action, with F1 practice, Qualifying and the Grand Prix supported by other categories. That means plenty of track running and multiple chances to see cars at full speed.

Grandstands sit close to the iconic corners, while general admission areas offer wide views across large sections of the circuit, including the famous Spoon Curve, meaning the event is always buzzing.

Japan has produced some of the most legendary moments within the sport, and with the circuit as challenging as it is fast, Suzuka always promises to be one of the most epic races on the calendar.

Outstanding moments in Suzuka

Suzuka has served up some unforgettable standout moments throughout the years since first hosting an F1 weekend in 1987.

We couldn’t possibly list them all, but here’s a selection to whet your appetite for more…

1988: Ayrton Senna arrived in Japan needing a win for his first title. He bounced back from stalling on the grid and danced through the rain to take the win and beat team mate Alain Prost to the Championship.

1989: Senna and Prost had another title decider, with Senna taking pole but Prost taking the lead into Turn 1. The pair infamously collided at the chicane on Lap 46, retiring Prost immediately while Senna continued, after help from the marshals, and took the win. However, the Brazilian was disqualified for cutting the chicane, thus crowning Prost champion.

1990: Senna and Prost, now at Ferrari, faced off for the title for a mind-blowing third year in a row. It was over much quicker than the year before, with the Brazilian launching down the inside at Turn 1, colliding with Prost and eliminating them both. The title was Senna’s – but it provided plenty of talking points!

1994: The rain-hit 1994 race saw a titanic fight between Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill – with the Briton’s one-stop strategy getting the better of the Ferrari man, as Hill took the win to set up an Australian title decider.

2000: Having lost out to Mika Hakkinen two years prior, Schumacher was determined to claim Ferrari's first Drivers’ Championship in 21 years. The German did exactly that, managing tricky conditions to claim victory and his third title.

2005: McLaren and Kimi Raikkonen were caught out in wet Qualifying, leaving them down in P17, but the Finn overtook six cars on Lap 1, before sweeping past Giancarlo Fisichella on the final lap to complete a comeback for the ages.

2012: Home hero Kamui Kobayashi had the fans in raptures as he fought off Jenson Button in his Sauber to give Japan their first home podium in 22 years.

2025: Kimi Antonelli became the youngest driver in F1 history to lead a race and to set a fastest lap.

How can I watch the Japanese Grand Prix?

Nothing beats being there! Head to F1 Tickets to secure your place and catch all the action. F1 Experiences has a great range of premium ticket packages too, getting you closer to Formula 1 than ever before.

For details of the broadcaster in your area, click here.

You can also watch the drama unfold via F1 TV Pro (in selected countries only).