Posted on October 11th, 2008 by Oliver White
It only seems like only yesterday that Fernando Alonso was winning Formula One’s very first night race and Singapore’s very first race ever. But in fact two weeks have passed and now we are about to witness the battle for pole position at Japan’s Fuji Speedway. It is really going to be a battle between Felipe Massa and Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari and McLaren. But in the mix are Renault, Kimi Raikkonen, BMW and any other stray who thinks himself lucky around the Tilke-modified circuit. So join myself and a whole host of other bloggers and fans in discussing the the qualifying sessions of the 2008 Japanese Grand Prix. Continue Reading
Posted on June 17th, 2008 by Oliver White
With a history of producing great Formula One races, and on a circuit that is actually good in most aspects, Suzuka today can stand proud that while their track may be aging, at least they can boast decent toilet facilities. Yes, I’m afraid that once again I most bemoan the changing of the Japanese Grand Prix venue from Honda-owned Suzuka to Toyota-owned Fuji. The reason? The circuit has received a lawsuit from 109 irate spectators from the 2007 event. Continue Reading
Posted on March 15th, 2006 by Oliver White
It has been reported that the 2007 Japanese Grand Prix will be held at the Toyota-owned Fuji circuit, and not the now usual Honda-owned Suzuka track.
Suzuka has been home to the Japanese race since 1987, and is regarded by many fans as one of the best circuits in the world. In last years FIA-sponsored survey, Suzuka was only beaten to the top spot by Spa Francorchamps in Belgium. The circuit boasts some superb corners, such as the Degner corner, 130R, Spoon and the Esses. The circuit has provided some awesome races over the years, not least of which was its last race in 2005. The image of Alonso passing Schumacher Snr around the outside of 130R will be etched on my mind forever.
Fuji has been used before as the circuit of choice for the Japanese Grand Prix at the countries innaugral race in 1976, and again the following year in ‘77. The circuit is quite short and twisty, and in my opinion does not have the same calibre of corners as the Honda-owned Suzuka. But since being bought by Toyota, a reputed $168 million have been ploughed into updating the tracks facilities.
Bernie Ecclestone has apparently suggested that Japan could host two Grands Prix in 2007 in order to ensure that both tracks are used. Although personally, I firmly believe that Suzuka should host the race as it has a far superior track. As a fan, I don’t care if important delegates or team sponsors have to stand to watch the race rather than be seated in luxurious air-conned rooms. I care about the track, and the exciting racing it can produce.
That’s my view, but what do you think? Should Fuji be awarded the Grand Prix, should Japan be allowed to host two races?
