Japanese Grand Prix 2026
The legendary Suzuka Circuit hosts one of the most revered races on the F1 calendar, beloved by drivers and fans for its fearsome figure-of-eight layout.
Race Information
Suzuka International Racing Course
Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan
53
5.807 km
1987
Lewis Hamilton (1:30.983, 2019)
About Suzuka Circuit
Suzuka is widely regarded as one of the finest racing circuits in the world and holds a special place in Formula 1 history. Originally designed by Dutch architect John Hugenholtz in 1962 as a test track for Honda, the circuit's unique figure-of-eight layout — where the track passes over itself via a bridge — is unmatched anywhere else on the F1 calendar. This design creates a wonderful variety of corner types, from the fearsome 130R flat-out left-hander to the technical Esses that open the lap.
The flowing first sector through the S-Curves is considered one of the ultimate tests of a driver's skill and car balance in all of motorsport. Getting the entry right to the first S-turn and carrying speed through the entire sequence requires absolute commitment and precision. The Degner curves, Spoon, and the legendary 130R corner further test a driver's bravery and consistency across a demanding 5.807-kilometre lap.
Japan's passionate and knowledgeable fanbase adds to the special atmosphere at Suzuka. Japanese F1 fans are renowned for their dedication, often dressing in team colours and driver costumes, camping out for days to secure the best vantage points. The circuit has hosted numerous championship-deciding moments, including Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost's famous collisions in 1989 and 1990, and continues to deliver thrilling racing year after year.
How to Watch the Japanese Grand Prix
In the UK, the Japanese Grand Prix is broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, with full coverage available via Sky Go and NOW TV. Due to the eight-hour time difference, the race typically starts in the early morning UK time.
Channel 4 shows extended highlights later the same day. Check our TV schedule page for exact broadcast times for all sessions.
International coverage is available via F1 TV Pro, Fuji TV and DAZN (Japan), ESPN (USA), and other regional broadcasters.
Previous Winners
| Year | Winner | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2024 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2023 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2022 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
| 2019 | Valtteri Bottas | Mercedes |