What is the history of Formula 1 at the Fuji Speedway?
Fuji has hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix on two occasions. The first, the inaugural Japanese race took place in 1976. That race saw an enthralling battle for the Drivers’ title between James Hunt in his McLaren and Niki Lauda. The chaotic race, due to dreadful weather conditions, saw James finish in third to win the Drivers’ crown. In 1977 James Hunt again played a key part in the on track action, taking the chequered flag by more than a minute. He then proceeded to leave the track immediately to avoid the notorious traffic, missing the podium celebrations. Part of the development of the circuit has included the improvement of transport links, meaning this shouldn’t be such an issue in 2007! Fuji replaces Suzuka, which held the Japanese Grand Prix between ’87 and ’06. In that time the team took six wins, the most recent coming in 2005 with Kimi Raikkonen. Fernando took victory at the event last year. What are the key characteristics of the track? The overall nature of the original track
