For drivers and teams, success at Suzuka is a badge of honor, reflecting not just on their performance in the race but their mastery of one of the most challenging circuits in motorsport. The Japanese Grand Prix is more than just the fourth round of the season; it is a celebration of the sport’s rich history and its deep connection with Japanese fans, who are known for their passionate and knowledgeable support.
As the Formula 1 circus descends on Suzuka, the anticipation builds not just for the spectacle of racing but for the stories that will unfold. Will we see a strategic masterclass from the pit wall, a heroic drive from the back of the grid, or a battle for the ages at the front? The 2024 Japanese Grand Prix promises all this and more, as the finest drivers in the world take on the challenge of Suzuka, each seeking to etch their name into the annals of Formula 1 history.
Suzuka, a track synonymous with racing heritage, presents a demanding layout that has remained a firm favourite among drivers and fans alike. Its figure-eight configuration – a unique feature in the Formula 1 calendar – coupled with a mix of high-speed corners, technical sections, and elevation changes, challenges teams to find the optimal setup and pushes drivers to the limits of their abilities. The circuit’s storied past, marked by epic battles and championship deciders, adds a layer of historical significance to the race weekend.
Beyond the Track
The Japanese Grand Prix is not just about the action on the track; it is a celebration of motorsport culture, with fans from across the globe converging on Suzuka to share their passion for racing. The event is a highlight of the Formula 1 season, offering a unique blend of sporting excellence, technological innovation, and cultural exchange.
As the Formula 1 circus descends upon Suzuka, the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix is set to add another chapter to the rich history of this legendary circuit. With its challenging layout and strategic complexities, Suzuka will once again test the mettle of the world’s best drivers and teams, promising a weekend of unforgettable racing action.
Japanese Grand Prix F1 stats
Grand Prix info
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Races held: 37
First race: 1976 Japanese Grand Prix
Last race: 2023 Japanese Grand Prix
Most wins (driver)
Michael Schumacher (6)
Most wins (constructor)
McLaren (9)
Circuits
| # | Circuit | Races | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fuji | 4 | 1976-77, 2007-08 |
| 2 | Suzuka | 33 | 1987-2006, 2009-19, 2022-23 |
Wins by grid position
Below are the grid positions of every race winner at the Japanese Grand Prix and the number of wins per position.
| Grid position | Wins |
|---|---|
| Pole | 18 |
| 2nd | 12 |
| 3rd | 1 |
| 4th | 1 |
| 5th | 1 |
| 6th | 2 |
| 17th | 1 |
Title deciders
The Japanese Grand Prix has hosted the following championship title deciders:
Drivers’ title
- 1976: James Hunt (1st title)
- 1987: Nelson Piquet (3rd title)
- 1988: Ayrton Senna (1st title)
- 1989: Alain Prost (3rd title)
- 1990: Ayrton Senna (2nd title)
- 1991: Ayrton Senna (3rd title)
- 1996: Damon Hill (1st title)
- 1998: Mika Hakkinen (1st title)
- 1999: Mika Hakkinen (2nd title)
- 2000: Michael Schumacher (3rd title)
- 2003: Michael Schumacher (6th title)
- 2011: Sebastian Vettel (2nd title)
- 2022: Max Verstappen (2nd title)
Constructors’ title
- 1990: McLaren (6th title)
- 1995: Benetton (1st title)
- 1997: Williams (9th title)
- 1998: McLaren (8th title)
- 1999: Ferrari (9th title)
- 2003: Ferrari (13th title)
- 2016: Mercedes (3rd title)
- 2019: Mercedes (6th title)
- 2023: Red Bull (6th title)
Michael Schumacher stands out as the most successful driver at this circuit, achieving victory six times.
The 2024 Formula 1 grid features four drivers who have previously tasted victory at the Japanese Grand Prix. Among them, Lewis Hamilton leads the pack with four wins at Suzuka, the highest among current competitors. Max Verstappen follows closely, having clinched victories in the last two Suzuka contests. Fernando Alonso and Valtteri Bottas have each secured a single win at this venue.
Mika Hakkinen, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen constitute the elite group of drivers who have managed consecutive wins at Suzuka. Notably, Michael Schumacher is in a league of his own, being the sole driver to have won three consecutive races at this track, marking his triumphs in the years 2000, 2001, and 2002.
When it comes to national victories, German drivers have emerged victorious at Suzuka 11 times, more than any other country.
A remarkable period between 1989 and 1995 saw the Japanese Grand Prix crown seven different winners across seven seasons, highlighting an era of diverse victors at this prestigious race.
Sebastian Vettel stands alone in achieving a Grand Slam at Suzuka, securing pole position, leading every lap, and notching the fastest lap on his way to clinching the 2012 Japanese Grand Prix victory.
Ferrari and McLaren share the distinction of having the highest number of team victories at Suzuka, each boasting seven wins. With ten victories to their name, Mercedes tops the chart as the most successful engine manufacturer at this circuit. McLaren, Benetton, Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes make up the quintet of teams that have accomplished 1-2 finishes at Suzuka, with Red Bull being the latest to achieve this feat in 2022.
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