The Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit takes place on 27 to 29 March 2026 as the third round of the Formula 1 World Championship. Suzuka is one of the most revered circuits in motorsport, famous for its figure-eight layout, high-speed corners, and rich championship history. More World Drivers’ Championships have been decided at the Japanese Grand Prix than at any other venue on the calendar.
What is the Japanese Grand Prix?
The Japanese Grand Prix has been a cornerstone of the Formula 1 calendar since 1987, held at Suzuka for the vast majority of its history (with brief stints at Fuji Speedway in 2007-2008). The circuit, originally built as a Honda test track in 1962, is the only figure-eight layout in Formula 1, with an overpass bridging the track where it crosses itself. It measures 5.807 km with 18 corners and is widely considered one of the greatest racing circuits in the world.
When is the Japanese Grand Prix?
The 2026 Japanese Grand Prix follows the standard weekend format. Free Practice 1 and 2 take place on Friday 27 March, Free Practice 3 and Qualifying on Saturday 28 March, and the Grand Prix on Sunday 29 March at 14:00 local time (JST, UTC+9). For international viewers, that translates to 05:00 GMT, 01:00 EST, and 22:00 AEDT (Saturday evening).
Where is the Japanese Grand Prix?
Suzuka International Racing Course is located in Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan, approximately 50 km south-west of Nagoya. The circuit features some of the most challenging corners in Formula 1, including the Esses (Turns 3-6), the 130R high-speed left-hander, and the Degner curves. The race lap record is 1:30.965, set by Kimi Antonelli for Mercedes in 2025, while Max Verstappen holds the qualifying record at 1:26.983, also set in 2025.
Key Contenders
Kimi Antonelli arrived at Suzuka with growing momentum after his Shanghai victory and duly converted pole position into another win for Mercedes, becoming the youngest ever World Drivers’ Championship leader at 19 years and 216 days. Oscar Piastri finished second for McLaren, with Charles Leclerc third for Ferrari.
Max Verstappen, who won four consecutive Japanese Grands Prix from 2022 to 2025, was a strong contender at a circuit where he has excelled, while Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris engaged in a closely fought battle that highlighted the nuances of the 2026 energy management regulations.
How to Watch the Japanese Grand Prix
In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports F1 provides live coverage of all sessions, with extended highlights available for free on Channel 4 from 13:00 BST on Sunday. In the United States, Apple TV holds exclusive broadcasting rights at $12.99 per month. Canadian viewers can watch on TSN, with TSN+ plans from CA$8 per month. In Australia, Fox Sports and Kayo Sports carry full live coverage. Free-to-air options are available in select European markets including Austria (ServusTV), Luxembourg (RTL Zwee), and Belgium (RTBF). F1 TV Pro is available in supported territories worldwide.
History and Records
Suzuka has played host to 13 championship-deciding races, more than any other circuit. Michael Schumacher holds the record for most victories at the venue with six wins. Max Verstappen joined Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel on four wins each with his 2025 triumph, and was the first driver to win four consecutive races at Suzuka. The circuit has produced some of the sport’s most iconic moments, including the Senna-Prost collisions of 1989 and 1990, and Damon Hill’s title-clinching drive in 1996.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for the Japanese Grand Prix are available through the official Suzuka Circuit website and the Formula 1 ticketing platform. Grandstand options include the Main Grandstand opposite the pits, Degner Curve stands, and the popular 130R and Casio Triangle areas. General admission tickets provide access to open viewing areas around the circuit. Suzuka consistently draws large crowds, with Japanese fans renowned for their passionate and knowledgeable support of the sport. Hospitality and Paddock Club packages are also available through F1 Experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Japanese Grand Prix start?
The race starts at 14:00 JST (05:00 GMT) on Sunday 29 March 2026.
Where is the Japanese Grand Prix held?
At Suzuka International Racing Course in Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan.
Why is Suzuka considered a great F1 circuit?
Its unique figure-eight layout, high-speed corners like the Esses and 130R, and decades of championship history make it one of the most respected circuits in motorsport.
Who has won the most Japanese Grands Prix?
Michael Schumacher, with six victories at Suzuka.