Japan's Formula 1 Racing Series In Suzuka Extended Until 2029

JAKARTA - Formula 1 officially announced the extension of the Japanese Grand Prix contract at the suzuka Circuit to be on the racing calendar until 2029.

"Suzuka is a special circuit and is part of this sports structure, so I am happy that F1 will continue to race at this circuit until at least 2029," said Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, quoted from the official Formula 1 website reported by Antara, Sunday.

The Suzuka Circuit with 18 high-speed bends is considered one of the favorites of racers and fans. With an iconic 'S'-shaped curve, making it one of the most famous tracks in F1.

Suzuka has also hosted many memorable moments in Formula 1, with 12 championships held there, including when Max Verstappen confirmed his second straight title in 2022.

This season, the Japanese GP will be held in April, right between the Australian GP and the Chinese GP. This is an effort by the organizers of the premier racing class to make the 2024 racing calendar more efficient and energy efficient.

Last year's Japanese GP was attended by 222,000 fans during the weekend of the race. In addition to waiting for favorite racers such as Verstappen and Sergio Perez, the presence of their local hero, Yuki Tsunoda, also gave her own color.

"Our fans in Japan welcome Formula 1 with a unique spirit, and we look forward to working with promoters to provide their fans with the experience they deserve in the years to come," said Domenicali.

Agreeing, the President and Director of Honda Mobilityland Corporation, Tsuyoshi Saito, said that his party is committed to providing both pleasant and sustainable experiences.

"We aim to create a sustainable future and we are currently preparing to welcome many fans to the Japanese GP in April, the first time the event will be held in spring," said Saito.

Meanwhile, the Formula 1 pre-season trial session for this year will last for three days in Bahrain on February 21-23.

After that, Formula 1 for the 2024 season itself will be opened in Bahrain from February 29 to March 2.