Why F1 drivers love Suzuka

It’s a firm favourite for drivers – Alex Albon included – but what makes Suzuka stand out?

Published

20 MAR 2026

Est. reading time

3 min

There are circuits on the Formula 1 calendar that test you, and then there are circuits that remind you why you fell in love with motorsport in the first place. Suzuka firmly sits in that second category for Alex Albon.

“I love this circuit. I think it's actually my favourite circuit of the year,” Alex says. “It’s that feeling that you can really drive the corners and really feel what it's like to drive a Formula 1 car… the speed, and because it's so tight, so narrow, there's grass either side – the immersion in speed is a bit more than you get at somewhere like Paul Ricard. So it's very special.”

The Track

That sentiment is shared throughout the paddock with almost all of Alex’s peers on the grid. Suzuka is a driver’s circuit in the purest sense – fast, flowing and very technical, demanding commitment through every sector. From the iconic Esses in Sector 1 to the high-speed challenge of 130R, there’s no room to switch off.

Peeking through the sakura to catch a glimpse of these machines powering through the Esses

And that’s exactly why drivers love it.

“Suzuka is narrow,” Alex explains. “I would say that you feel like there’s a chance you could crash – which gives you the adrenaline.”

The sense that you’re right on the limit is what makes a lap around Suzuka so rewarding, and there’s a rhythm to it that drivers chase all weekend.

The 18 corners of Suzuka are so well respected, that they’re often used as inspiration upon which modern venues are designed. Get a lap around this 5.8km venue right and it feels effortless. Get it wrong, and your lap will quickly unravel.

The Fans

But Suzuka’s appeal isn’t just about what happens on track.

“Racing in Japan is always a highlight for me,” Alex says. “I absolutely love the country, the culture, and the fans. Suzuka is definitely one of my favourite tracks on the calendar!”

Drivers are treated to some incredible support throughout the entire Japanese GP weekend

Few places match the passion of the Japanese fans. Year after year, they bring energy, unique creativity and unwavering support for every member of the grid. It’s an experience that drivers genuinely look forward to.

The Challenge

Of course, for all its magic behind the wheel, Suzuka hasn’t always delivered the easiest racing in recent seasons. Its narrow layout and flowing nature can make overtaking a real challenge, with drivers often needing to be patient and strategic to make progress.

But that could be about to change.

With the arrival of Formula 1’s 2026 regulations, there’s optimism that we’ll see more opportunities to race, and more chances to take on Suzuka’s corners in different ways. New car characteristics and evolving racecraft could open the door to more overtakes at a circuit that, until now, has been as tough to pass on as it is thrilling to drive.

This only adds another layer of intrigue heading into Round 3. While Suzuka has always been a favourite for drivers like Alex, this year it might just become even more exciting for everyone watching too.