Japanese Grand Prix - Preview

Published on 3 April 2024 at 16:00

1989 Japanese Grand Prix : The McLaren Honda's of Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna colliding together.      

Creator: Juan Pablo Donoso Credit: Getty Images

The Japanese Grand Prix is nearly here with all ten teams returning to the Suzuka circuit this weekend, let's break down everything you need to know.

The Suzuka International Racing Course first entered Formula One in 1987 but was built in 1962 springing from an idea by Soichiro Honda who decided his company should have its own test track.

With 53 laps in total and spanning just under 6km, Suzuka is a well loved track not just among the fans but the drivers aswell.

The circuit consists of 18 corners, two of which are named after Ernest Degner who was a German motorcycle racer of the 1950s and 1960s. These are called the Degner corner.

F1 legend Michael Schumacher stands at most pole positions (eight) and most wins (six) in the history of the circuit.

In the last eight years, 80% of drivers who snatched pole position have won the following day.

Last 5 GP pole-sitters Last 5 GP winners
2022 - Max Verstappen (Red Bull) 2022 - Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2019 - Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) 2019 - Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes)
2018 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) 2018 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
2018 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) 2018 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
2016 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) 2016 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes)

After a spectacular comeback to racing at the Australian Grand Prix last weekend, will Carlos Sainz find his way back to the front of the grid? 

Will Ferrari be able to beat the Red Bull of Max Verstappen once again?

Can Max Verstappen reach the finish line?

 

 

HARLEY PARKER

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