Japanese Grand Prix moves to Fuji

The Japanese Grand Prix will move from Suzuka to Fuji, it was confirmed today.

Suzuka, owned by Honda, has hosted the race since 1987 but the rival Toyota-owned Fuji circuit has been keen to reclaim its place on the Formula One calendar.

Fuji hosted the first-ever Japanese Grand Prix in 1976 when James Hunt beat Niki Lauda to the world championship but it fell off the calendar after the 1977 race.

However, recent renovations have restored it to Formula One standard and owners Toyota today confirmed it will once again host a grand prix, in October next year.

Formula One commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone said: “We have the pleasure that Fuji Speedway, as the brand new venue nestled at the foot of the most majestic Mount Fuji, will be the new home of Japanese Grand Prix.

“We also have a good expectation that the Formula One event there would be the opening of new era of Formula One history.”

Suzuka could yet host a grand prix if Ecclestone revives his brief experiment with a second race in Japan, under the Pacific Grand Prix banner.