F1 Japan GP 2026: Suzuka International Racing Course

Length

5.807 km

Laps

Distance

307.471 km

Corners

DRS Zones

Top Speed

310 km/h

First GP

1987

Location

Suzuka

About the Circuit

Suzuka is one of the most revered circuits in motorsport, famous for its unique figure-eight layout where the track crosses over itself. The legendary Esses (S-Curves) in the first sector are among the most demanding sequences of corners in F1, requiring absolute precision and commitment at high speed. Spoon Corner and 130R are iconic challenges that separate the great drivers.

Figure-eight layoutLegendary S-Curves130R high-speed cornerDemanding on aerodynamicsClassic racing venue

Recent winners and famous corners

Recent Winners

Last 10

2026Andrea Kimi AntonelliMercedes
2025Max VerstappenRed Bull
2024Max VerstappenRed Bull
2023Max VerstappenRed Bull
2022Max VerstappenRed Bull
2019Valtteri BottasMercedes
2018Lewis HamiltonMercedes
2017Lewis HamiltonMercedes
2016Nico RosbergMercedes
2015Lewis HamiltonMercedes

Famous Corners

Turns 3–7The Esses

A high-speed sequence of left-right-left-right corners that sets up the entire lap. Considered one of the greatest sequences in motorsport — getting the rhythm wrong is costly.
Turns 8–9Degner 1 & 2

A pair of right-handers where the first is taken in fifth gear and the second tightens unexpectedly. Many drivers have lost laps and races against the wall on the exit of Degner 2.
Turns 13–14Spoon Curve

A long, double-apex left at the far end of the circuit. The exit is critical because it feeds onto the back straight that leads into 130R.
Turn 15130R

A flat-out left-hander once considered impossible without lifting. Now taken at full throttle with modern aero, but still one of the most awe-inspiring corners on the calendar.
Turns 16–17Casio Triangle

The final right-left chicane, a heavy braking zone that's a classic last-lap overtaking opportunity into the start/finish straight.