Fuji International Speedway

Fuji International Speedway stands as one of Japan's most iconic racing venues, nestled in the foothills of its namesake mountain. This world-class circuit combines breathtaking natural scenery with challenging track design, making it a favorite among drivers and spectators alike. Since its opening in 1965, the track has hosted numerous prestigious racing events and undergone several transformations to become the modern facility it is today. Toyota Motor Corporation now owns this Grade 1 FIA-certified circuit, which continues to play a central role in Asian motorsport.

Location and Origins

The circuit sits in Oyama, Shizuoka Prefecture, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Tokyo. Mount Fuji provides a stunning backdrop for racing events. The venue began as the Japan NASCAR Corporation in 1963, with initial plans to build a 4-kilometer high-banked superspeedway similar to American NASCAR tracks. Financial constraints prevented the full execution of this plan, resulting in only one banked corner being built in the original design. Mitsubishi Estate owned the circuit from its inception until 2000, when Toyota acquired the facility.

Circuit Design and Technical Features

The current track measures 4.563 kilometers (2.835 miles) and features 16 turns. German track designer Hermann Tilke created the fifth and current configuration during major renovations in 2003, with the circuit reopening in 2005. The most distinctive feature is the 1.475-kilometer main straight—one of the longest in motorsport—which allows cars to reach maximum speeds before braking hard for Turn 1. This creates an excellent overtaking opportunity. The circuit also incorporates significant elevation changes and technical corner sequences, including the challenging 100R sweeping right-hander. These features test driver skill and car setup. The facility can accommodate 110,000 spectators.

Racing History

Fuji Speedway hosted the first Formula One Japanese Grand Prix in 1976, a famous rain-soaked race where James Hunt secured the world championship. Mario Andretti won this inaugural F1 event, while Hunt claimed victory in the 1977 race. After a 30-year absence, Formula One returned to Fuji in 2007 and 2008, with Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso taking the respective wins. The circuit hosted the World Sportscar Championship from 1982 to 1988. A non-championship USAC Indy Car race took place in 1966, won by Jackie Stewart. The track closed temporarily in 2003 for its Tilke redesign before reopening as a modern facility in 2005.

Notable Events and Racing Series

The circuit hosts many major racing events, including: - FIA World Endurance Championship 6 Hours of Fuji - Super GT series (including the Fuji 500 km Race) - Super Formula Championship - GT World Challenge Asia - Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia - ENEOS Super Taikyu Series Fuji Super TEC 24 Hours Race - D1 Grand Prix drifting competitions - NISMO Festival and Toyota Motorsport Festival Felipe Massa holds the Formula One lap record of 1:18.426, set in his Ferrari during the 2008 Grand Prix. The current fastest lap time stands at 1:38.147, achieved in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO during the Fanatec GT World Challenge Asia.

Unique Aspects and Legacy

Fuji Speedway made history as the first racetrack featured in a video game, appearing in the 1982 arcade classic "Pole Position." The circuit hosts various motorsport activities beyond traditional racing, including drag racing events on the main straight and drifting competitions. During drift events, the circuit runs in reverse direction—the only time this configuration is used. The venue further extended its sporting legacy by hosting cycling events during the 2020 Summer Olympics. With its combination of high-speed sections, technical corners, and magnificent mountain views, Fuji International Speedway remains a jewel in the crown of Asian motorsport.