The Japanese Grand Prix will remain on the F1 calendar for the next five years and will be held at the Suzuka International Racing Course. The FOM (Formula One Group) and circuit owner Honda have signed a contract extension until 2029, and that is good news for Max Verstappen and co.
Suzuka has been the battleground for the Japanese Grand Prix for many years, but despite its popularity with drivers and fans, it was not yet a permanent fixture on the F1 calendar. However, that is now changing. “Suzuka is a special circuit and part of the DNA of the sport,” said Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. “I am pleased to announce that F1 will continue to race there until 2029. Japanese fans embrace the sport with a unique passion. We look forward to working together for years to come and giving fans the experience they deserve.”
The contract extension of the Grand Prix in the land of the rising sun does not come as a surprise at all. Suzuka is known as a classic circuit. The drivers are eagerly looking forward to racing there for a whole year. As the future engine supplier of Aston Martin, which will enter into a partnership with the Japanese manufacturer from 2026, Honda is becoming an increasingly prominent player within the sport, a position that will only be strengthened by the contract extension of the Suzuka circuit.
Max Verstappen in Japan
The Japanese Grand Prix was not held in 2020 and ’21 due to the corona pandemic, but the legendary circuit has been back since 2022. Verstappen and Red Bull Racing will be pleased with the news. The Dutchman won the last two editions with gusto and was now crowned world champion for the second time (in a row) in Suzuka two seasons ago.
The Japanese Grand Prix will be held in April next season, unlike in previous years. For logistical reasons, the Formula 1 circus will travel to Japan for round four of the championship, following the Australian Grand Prix. The drivers will then stay in Asia for a while because the return of the Chinese GP is scheduled for two weeks later.
