Beginner's Guide

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STEP1 "What kind of event is SUPER GT?"

A car race boasting one of the largest spectator turnouts in domestic racing!

This is a car racing series that features race-specific vehicles based on high-performance commercial cars, characterized by the mixed racing of two classes of vehicles with different specifications: "GT500" and "GT300." Approximately eight races are held annually at large domestic circuits, and the annual champion is determined by the points earned in each race.

Weight (ballast) adjustments and fuel flow restrictions are imposed based on the performance in the series, creating a balance in the performance of each vehicle. This leads to intense racing action that is popular, boasting one of the largest spectator turnouts in domestic racing.

The "2024 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round 5 SUZUKA GT 300km RACE GRAND FINAL" that will be held this time was originally scheduled for August 31 (Sat) and September 1 (Sun), but due to the impact of a typhoon, it has been postponed to December. This will be held at Suzuka Circuit as the season's final round "GRAND FINAL" for the first time since 2005.
What is a 'GT' car?
The "GT" in "SUPER GT" is an abbreviation for the English term "Grand Touring".
The title of the game, "Gran Turismo," is in Italian.

Grand Touring cars, or GT cars, originally mean "cars that can travel long distances quickly and comfortably." While there are various interpretations and no strict definition, the term is mainly used to refer to a grade (class) of high-performance production vehicles.

GT car racing is conducted with machines that have been modified to run even faster for racing, and the pinnacle of that is called "SUPER GT."
Representative GT cars (from the front: NISSAN GT-R, LEXUS RC F, Porsche 911, Mercedes AMG GT)
Representative GT cars (from the front: NISSAN GT-R, LEXUS RC F, Porsche 911, Mercedes AMG GT)
What is the difference between GT500 and GT300?
As explained at the beginning, SUPER GT is characterized by the mixed racing of two classes of vehicles: "GT500" and "GT300." There is a speed difference of more than 10 seconds between these two classes, so the GT500 class gradually laps the GT300 class, leading to a complex progression of the race.

Now, let me explain the differences between GT500 and GT300.

The "GT500" was originally set as a higher class equipped with an engine of about 500 horsepower, while the "GT300" was established as a lower class with an engine of about 300 horsepower. Although the output that originally inspired these class names differs from the current specifications, "500" and "300" are still used as easily understandable class names today.

GT500 features a body inspired by the high-performance GT cars of Honda, TOYOTA, and NISSAN, but it is equipped with a common chassis specifically designed for GT500 and a 2000cc inline 4-cylinder direct-injection turbo engine that meets the NRE (Nippon Race Engine) standards, making it a unique machine in the SUPER GT category. The course record for the GT500 class at Suzuka Circuit was set in 2022 by Yusuke Kunimoto in the TOYOTA GR Supra GT500 with a time of 1'44.112. It is overwhelmingly fast among so-called box cars (roofed racing cars based on production vehicles), and in domestic racing, it is astonishing that it achieves times second only to SUPER FORMULA, Japan's top formula car race, even when including formula car races (racing machines with exposed tires, no roof, and a single seat).

GT300 is a bit complex, consisting of three categories: "GT3", "JAF-GT300", and "GT300MC (Mother Chassis)". Compared to the GT500 class, it features a very diverse range of machines. While the details of each are omitted here, there are rules in place to equalize performance through output limits and weight adjustments for each vehicle type, ensuring that no specific category or machine stands out. The course record for the GT300 class at Suzuka Circuit is 1'55.531, set by Yuichi Nakayama in a LEXUS RC F GT3 in 2018. Although this time is about 11 seconds slower than the GT500, it proudly ranks 2nd among all box car races, following the GT500 class.
 
Start scenes of the GT500 class (left) and the GT300 class (right)
Start scenes of the GT500 class (left) and the GT300 class (right)
What are the rules of SUPER GT?
Let’s introduce the main rules of SUPER GT.

■Multiple Driver System

Each machine must be driven by at least two drivers. If the race distance is between 250 and 300 km, there will be a pair of drivers. If specified separately by the GTA (GT Association, the governing body of SUPER GT), a third driver is also allowed.

In the qualifying rounds Q1 (first qualifying) and Q2 (second qualifying), different drivers must run in each.

In the final race, the first driver starts, completes laps, returns to the pit, and must switch with other drivers, meaning that the race must be run by two or more people. Additionally, one person cannot exceed two-thirds of the race distance.

■Series Points

SUPER GT is held as a series of races over the course of a year, with titles (championships) at stake for both the driver and team categories in the GT500 class and the GT300 class.
 
Points are awarded for the results of each race, and the total series points from all events will determine the driver and team that earn the series title.

Points for drivers (teams) are awarded based on class and competition vehicle (by entry number).

■Success Weight System

The participating vehicles will be equipped with a success weight (additional weight added to the minimum vehicle weight) based on the total points of the driver on board.

If the points of the two are different, the higher points will be adopted. This is to balance vehicle performance within each class and allow teams to compete based on their overall strength.

In the GT500 class, if the success weight exceeds 50kg, the fuel flow will be restricted to limit engine output for safety reasons, ensuring that the additional weight remains within 50kg.

■Qualifying

Qualifying is conducted in two stages, Q1 (first qualifying) and Q2 (second qualifying), using a knockout format based on time order.
Q1 and Q2 are run by different drivers, and they cannot switch during the session.
 
The GT300 class Q1 is divided into two groups, A and B, based on the team rankings from the previous race (Round 1 follows the rankings from the previous year), and will be conducted over 10 minutes each. Based on the results of Q1, 16 cars from the GT300 class (the top 8 from each group) and the top 8 from the GT500 class will advance to Q2.
 
The starting grid for the final race (the starting positions of each car) will have the 1st place from Q2 as the pole position, and the subsequent positions will be based on the Q2 rankings.
 
Vehicles that did not advance to Q2 will be determined by their Q1 ranking.
 
You can use one set of tires in Q1 and one set in Q2, but changing them after the session has started is prohibited. If a "Wet Declaration" is issued by the event officials (competition management staff), you may switch to wet (rain) tires.

■Final

In the starting procedure for the final race, the cars will first line up in a two-row starting grid in the order determined by qualifying, with the pole position at the front. At this time, all GT500 class cars will be in front, followed by all GT300 class cars.

When the start time arrives, form a two-column lineup and conduct a formation lap, which is a pre-race run not included in the race laps, led by the official car at approximately 80-90 km/h.

Just before the end of the formation lap, the leading official car will leave, and once the green signal for the start is illuminated, the speed limit will be lifted. The race will start in a "rolling start method" when each car passes the start line. However, overtaking is prohibited until passing the start line.

The leading vehicle of the GT300 class will run with an appropriate gap from the last vehicle of the GT500 class, and after the start of the GT500 class, will start in the same manner.

■Driver Change and Pit Work

In the final race, a pit stop involving a driver change must be made at least once.
During a pit stop, refueling and tire changes are also possible.

At this time, only 5 mechanics and the driver are allowed to touch and work on the competition vehicle, and tire changes will be performed by 2 people. Additionally, refueling and tire changes cannot be done simultaneously.
Tire changes are not mandatory, so strategies such as not changing tires or changing only two tires can be employed to reduce pit work time.
What kind of players are there?
Japan's premier GT car racing series, SUPER GT. The drivers are all top-level competitors, of course.
This time, we will introduce 6 members from 3 teams competing for the top positions this season in the GT500 class: Honda, TOYOTA, and NISSAN.

au TOM'S GR Supra

STANLEY CIVIC TYPE R-GT

Niterra MOTUL Z

What are the highlights of the Final Round?
■Since 2005! The SUPER GT Final Round held at SUZUKA CIRCUIT for the first time in a long while

While SUZUKA CIRCUIT is strongly associated with the final battle in SUPER FORMULA, the last time the final round of SUPER GT was held here was in 2005. Surprisingly, there has not been a final round held here since then.
This year, 2005, marks the memorable first year of the transition from the "All Japan GT Championship" held from 1994 to 2004 to SUPER GT. Nearly 20 years later, there is high anticipation for what kind of developments will unfold at the Final Round held at SUZUKA CIRCUIT.

■Impact of Winter Events

There has never been an official SUPER GT race held in December.
With just a little over two weeks until Christmas, it gets quite cold at SUZUKA CIRCUIT as well.

Generally, lower temperatures increase engine power, which could lead to high-speed battles where course records are continuously broken.

The current course record at Suzuka is 1 minute 44.112 seconds set by Yuji Kunimoto in the WedsSport ADVAN GR Supra during Round 3 of 2022 for GT500. For GT300, the record of 1 minute 55.531 set by Yuichi Nakayama driving the K-tunes RC F GT3 in 2018 has yet to be broken.

If the weather is good and the tires are properly warmed up, it might be possible to aim for a time of 1 minute 42 seconds or more in Q2 for GT500. In any case, the official qualifying session will be unmissable.

■No Success Weight, Real Competition

As mentioned in STEP1, "What are the rules of SUPER GT?", SUPER GT has a system called "Success Weight" that adds weight to the cars based on their performance during the season to encourage more exciting battles.
However, since the rules state that "no success weight will be added for the 8th race," all teams will run their machines without any weight in this Suzuka Final Round, which is effectively the 8th race.

As mentioned earlier, the engine power tends to be higher in low temperatures, and when combined with no weight, there is a possibility of achieving incredible times.
And since the capable teams do not have to worry about weight, it is expected that the battle for the championship will become even more intense.

The development of the Final Round, held in an environment completely different from the usual Suzuka race, is unpredictable. How will the championship battle unfold? I hope you prepare well and come to see it for yourself on-site.

What happens when ace drivers get into each other's machines...!?

The first video featuring Naoki Yamamoto and Hideki Yamauchi is KOCHIRA (Released in 2023)

 

STEP2 "Which ticket should I buy?"

To watch a race event, you need to purchase a "ticket" for that event.
However, there are various types of tickets, so many people may say, "I don't really know which one to buy even after looking at the ticket list..."
So, let me introduce tickets recommended for those who are watching SUPER GT for the first time and for beginners.

■First, let's check the locations where you can watch with the 'General Admission Ticket'

First, let's check the types and prices of the basic admission tickets. As a popular race, the admission tickets for SUPER GT are quite pricey compared to other big races at Suzuka Circuit. In particular, same-day tickets can be quite expensive, so it is recommended to purchase advance tickets by December 6 (Fri).
 

General Admission Ticket

  Advance Tickets Door ticket
List Price List Price
Adult (24 years and older) 6,500yen 8,500yen
U23 (High school student ~ 23 years old) 5,200yen 6,800yen
Elementary and Middle School Students 4,300yen 5,900yen
3 years old to preschoolers 2,900yen 3,800yen
This time, let's explain the general admission ticket, which is an entry ticket.
In the spectator area map below, the green areas (A, C, D, E, West Course Area) are places where you can watch with a general admission ticket. Unlike reserved seats, there are no specific seats assigned to you, so you can choose any available spot in these areas to enjoy the event.

Viewing Area Map

The recommended seat for the general admission ticket is, first of all, the A seat.
This area is located in the latter part of the home straight, where you can feel the overwhelming speed of the SUPER GT machines. It is also popular because the first corner, which is an overtaking point, is nearby.
From the perspective of the viewing environment, it is relatively easy to find food and drinks since it is close to GP Square, and there are permanent restrooms located behind, making it comfortable to spend time there.

The C, D, and E seats facing the ASURA S-curve are places where you can see the powerful cornering of SUPER GT up close. However, be aware that they are somewhat distant from each entrance gate and GP Square, and you will need to walk a bit to get there, as there are not many dining options available.

You can also watch from the vast West Area. The West Area has various viewing spots that are great for photography. However, be careful as you will need to walk quite a distance.
 

If there is room, we would like to consider the 'Area Seats' and 'V1/V2 Reserved Seats'

The blue icons on the viewing area map (Q1, Q2, B1, B2, R) indicate area seats. Unlike reserved seats, area seats allow you to watch from any available spot within the area. All of them are popular seats with a great view. Adults (24 years and older) can purchase a general admission ticket with an additional 2,000yen.

Among the red icons, V1 and V2 seats are reserved seats (R-BOX and GRAN VIEW are seats intended for multiple users, which will not be covered here). Since a seat is assigned to you alone, there is no worry about it being taken by someone else. Furthermore, V2 seats have a roof, making it comfortable even in bad weather, and the access to the Grandstand and GP Square is the shortest distance, providing an excellent viewing environment. The V1 reserved seat is an additional 3,000yen on the spectator ticket (non-reserved seats) for adults (24 years and older), and the V2 reserved seat is an additional 5,000yen for adults (24 years and older), but it is worth that price. Please consider it after consulting your wallet.

As an example, let me introduce the viewing environment of the V2 reserved seats.

View from V2 Reserved Seats

The V2 seats located on the upper level of the Grandstand, which is easily accessible from the park, offer a great view.

The only covered reserved seats in the outdoor stands

It's nice to be able to handle sunlight and some changes in weather in the outdoor grandstand seats.

Route from Main Gate to V2 Seats (Grandstand)

 

STEP 3: What kind of clothing and items are good?

Of course, it's basic to watch freely in your favorite style, but if you're unsure, try using this as a reference!

Attire

* Be fully prepared for the cold!
  • (1) Hat
    Focus on warmth! Since the sun can be strong during the day, items with a brim are recommended.
  • (2) Jacket and Bag
    Since you will be spending a long time outdoors in December, dress in the warmest style possible. It is recommended to use inner layers made of moisture-wicking and heat-retaining materials. Choose a thick outer jacket as well. If it unexpectedly gets warm during the day, you can simply take one layer off.
    The neck is important too. Let's prepare scarves, stoles, and neck warmers.
    A backpack that frees up both hands is recommended. It is also convenient to have a smartphone shoulder bag or a waist pouch for easy access to your phone.
  • (3) Gloves
    Gloves that allow you to operate your smartphone while wearing them are recommended.
  • (4) Bottoms
    Comfortable and warm pants are essential.
  • (5) Shoes
    Comfortable shoes that you are used to wearing. If there is a chance of rain, waterproof ones are more comfortable.

Belongings

  • (1) Mobile Battery
    During long hours of watching, you may worry about the battery, so make sure to prepare a fully charged spare battery.
  • (2) Knee blanket
    Since you will be sitting outside for a long time, it is convenient to have something that can be folded and easily fit into a bag.
  • (3) Binoculars / Opera Glasses
    You can clearly see the distant circuit vision, leader tower, and pit work.
  • (4) Kappa Poncho
    As a rain measure, a raincoat or poncho is recommended because it takes up less space than an umbrella and keeps both hands free. Even if it seems like there won't be much rain, it's a good idea to have one ready just in case the weather changes suddenly.
  • (5) Plastic Bag
    Useful for storing towels and clothes that have become wet from sweat or rain. It can also be helpful in other situations, so let's bring a few that are as large and durable as possible.
  • (6) Seat Cushion
    Since long periods of sitting are expected, let's bring a portable folding chair.
  • (7) Towel
    Items that are especially useful on rainy days. Larger ones with hoods are also helpful for sun protection and warmth.
  • (8) Cairo / Portable Heater
    Disposable or battery-operated ones are fine. Let's bring the type that lasts as long as possible.
  • (9) Cash
    Although cashless transactions are progressing within the venue, there may be instances where shopping or payments do not support the digital payment methods you have on hand in unexpected places.
  • (10) Radio with Earphones
    The live commentary inside the venue will also be broadcast on Suzuka's FM radio station "Suzuka Voice FM 78.3MHz," so if you bring a radio with earphones, you can listen to clear commentary anywhere.

     
 

STEP 4: How should I get there?

During the SUPER GT event period, traffic congestion is expected on the roads around SUZUKA CIRCUIT, so it is recommended to use public transportation such as trains or buses if possible.
Either way, make sure to check the access methods in advance so you won't be rushed on the day.

Access from Outside the Prefecture [Public Transportation]

Route using Kintetsu Nagoya Line - Shirako Station. Take the Mie Kotsu bus from Kintetsu Shirako Station to head to SUZUKA CIRCUIT.
Route using Ise Railway - SUZUKA CIRCUIT Ino Station. It is about a 2km walking route from Ino Station, but there is no worry about getting caught in traffic here, making it easier to calculate time.

Access from Outside the Prefecture [Car/Bike]

Recommended Routes from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe

Recommended Routes from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe

Recommended Route from Osaka and Nara

Recommended Route from Osaka and Nara

Recommended Route from Tokyo and Nagoya

Recommended Route from Tokyo and Nagoya

Travel time from major urban areas in Mie Prefecture

・About 40 minutes from Yokkaichi city center
・Approximately 30 minutes from Tsu City
・About 60 minutes from Iga city center
・About 55 minutes from Matsusaka city
・1 hour and 10 minutes from Ise City

*This is the time during regular periods without traffic congestion.

Advance Parking Ticket

This image is the map of the front parking lot of SUZUKA CIRCUIT during the SUPER GT period.
All 4 wheels parking is by advance purchase only, so be aware that there is no parking available on the day. On the day of the event, there will be temporary parking available a little further away. Please check the link below for more details.
 

STEP 5: What should I do at the entrance gate?

The morning entrance gate gets crowded with many people. To ensure a smooth entry, log in to MobilityStation on your smartphone in advance so that the QR code can be displayed immediately. It is advisable to complete ticket distribution and other arrangements the day before.

You can check the detailed entry methods for each ticket on the page linked below.

 
 

STEP 6: What is your recommended way to spend a day?

 
If you're going to watch for the first time and wondering how to enjoy it, we have some recommended plans for you!

During the SUPER GT weekend, the "qualifying" session to determine the starting order for the final race takes place on Saturday, followed by the actual "final" race on Sunday. By purchasing one spectator ticket, you can enjoy both days with just one ticket. Each day has its own highlights, so we hope you enjoy both days at Suzuka Circuit.
 

December 7 (Sat) 'SUPER GT Round. 5 Qualifying Day'

 
On the first day, December 7 (Sat), the qualifying for "SUPER GT Round. 5" will be held as mentioned earlier. The qualifying is an important event that determines the starting order for the final race on the 8th (Sun).
 
The qualifying rules are KOCHIRA
■Qualifying

Qualifying is conducted in two stages, Q1 (first qualifying) and Q2 (second qualifying), using a knockout format based on time order.
Q1 and Q2 are run by different drivers, and they cannot switch during the session.
 
The GT300 class Q1 is divided into two groups, A and B, based on the team rankings from the previous race (Round 1 follows the rankings from the previous year), and will be conducted over 10 minutes each. Based on the results of Q1, 16 cars from the GT300 class (the top 8 from each group) and the top 8 from the GT500 class will advance to Q2.
 
The starting grid for the final race (the starting positions of each car) will have the 1st place from Q2 as the pole position, and the subsequent positions will be based on the Q2 rankings.
 
Vehicles that did not advance to Q2 will be determined by their Q1 ranking.
 
You can use one set of tires in Q1 and one set in Q2, but changing them after the session has started is prohibited. If a "Wet Declaration" is issued by the event officials (competition management staff), you may switch to wet (rain) tires.

On the first day, let's focus on the qualifying rounds and set a slightly relaxed schedule for the morning.
 
  • Until 9:00
    Arrival at SUZUKA CIRCUIT
  • 9:15
    Watch the official SUPER GT practice
  • 11:00
    Strolling through GP Square
  • 12:30
    Lunch
  • 1:50 PM
    Watch the official SUPER GT qualifying
  • 4:05 PM
    Participate in Kids Walk
    *For those accompanied by children in middle school or younger
  • 4:35 PM
    Return home (or to accommodation)

■Arrival at the Main Gate by 9:00

 
On the days of the SUPER GT event, multiple entry gates at SUZUKA CIRCUIT will be open, but if it's your first time, aim for the 'Main Gate' for now.
The opening time for the Main Gate is 7:45, but this is set to accommodate the qualifying for the support (preliminary) race, "FIA-F4," which takes place shortly after. If you plan to skip the FIA-F4 qualifying, there is no problem with entering around 9:00.

After presenting the QR code of your ticket at the gate, enjoy the scenery of SUZUKA CIRCUIT as you head to your designated seating area for viewing with your ticket.

 

■9:15 "Watch the SUPER GT Official Practice"

 
Let's take our seats by around 9:15 and watch the practice session for SUPER GT, which will be held before the afternoon qualifying.

Practice sessions are a valuable opportunity for drivers and teams to prepare for qualifying, allowing them to check conditions such as track surface, wind direction, and wind speed, as well as to adjust their machines accordingly. The running is free within the time limit, and each team will repeatedly go out from the pit, run, return to change settings, and run again.

The practice session lasts for 1 hour and 45 minutes, but the time available for each class is determined as shown below, so if you have a favorite driver or team, be sure to check it out.

9:15 AM - 10:40 AM GT500/GT300
10:40–10:50 GT300 only
10:50–11:00 GT500 only

 

■11:00 "Stroll around GP Square"

After watching the practice runs, let's head to GP Square (the plaza on the north side of the Grandstand).

At GP Square, there are PR booths from automobile manufacturers and parts manufacturers, as well as fan goods shops for teams and drivers, featuring booths unique to the SUPER GT period.

Especially the merchandise shop has items that are not usually available for purchase, so be sure to check it out. After the final race, it tends to get crowded, and many items may sell out, so if you have something specific in mind, I recommend going at this time if possible.

If you have extra time, it’s a good idea to walk along the course side to check out the views from various spectator seats.

 

■12:30 "Lunch"

Lunch time in between exploring GP Square.

It's a dilemma whether to choose the temporary "race food" stalls set up around the racing course or to use the restaurants in the park that have permanent chairs and tables.
During the SUPER GT period, various gourmet shops and food trucks line the area around the course. There are a variety of options including rice dishes, noodles, skewers, and sweets, all available for takeout.

Since the official qualifying for SUPER GT, the main event on Saturday, will start at 13:50, it would be nice to sit in your seat and enjoy a meal while watching it.

Around mid-November, when the vendor information is gathered, the "Food Map" will be posted on this official site, so please use it as a reference for choosing your lunch menu.

 

■1:50 PM "Watch the SUPER GT Official Qualifying"

Let's watch the important battle 'Qualifying' to determine the starting position in the final, by taking our seats by around 13:40.

The higher you place in the qualifying rounds, the more favorable your starting position will be for the final race, giving you an advantage heading into the final.

The qualifying round competes for the time of one lap around the course. The first qualifying round "Q1" is divided into Group A and Group B, each conducted for 10 minutes, and the top 6 cars from each group advance to the second qualifying round "Q2" to compete for the top positions.
Q2 lasts for 7 minutes, and the car that sets the fastest lap time secures the "pole position," allowing it to start from the most advantageous position for the race.

 

■16:05 "Participate in Kids Walk"

*For those accompanied by children in middle school or younger
If you are accompanied by children under junior high school age, be sure to participate in the "Kids Walk" that takes place during this time. Although it will be getting dark, it is a rare opportunity to see the GT machines up close and at a leisurely pace after the qualifying rounds.
If you participate, please go to the reverse bank tunnel (Grandstand final corner side) after the qualifying ends. *Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis.

The details of the participation requirements for the Kids Walk are as follows. If you meet the conditions below, you can participate with just a spectator ticket.

1 child under junior high school age + up to 2 guardians
*Up to 3 people per group (with 2 companions)*Participation is also possible with 2 children and 1 guardian.
※Children under 2 years old who do not require a spectator ticket are not included in the number of people.

 

■16:35 "Return Home (or to Accommodation)"

The sunset on this day is at 16:42, so it will be getting dark. It's about time to head home (or move to the accommodation) to prepare for Sunday morning.

However, since other fans will also be leaving at this time, the surrounding roads will be congested if you arrive by car. If you come by car, it might be a good idea to stroll around the venue and enjoy the atmosphere or look for souvenirs as long as time permits to avoid the traffic.



 

December 8 (Sun) 'SUPER GT Round. 5 Race Day'

On the second day, December 8 (Sun), the final round of the 2024 SUPER GT championship will finally determine the champion!

Here is the recommended schedule for the second day.
 
  • Until 8:00
    Arrival at the Gate (Main Gate, 1 Corner Gate, Poolside Gate)
  • 8:15
    FIA-F4 Rd.8 Final Race Viewing
  • 9:30
    Enjoy at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK
  • 11:30
    Lunch
  • 12:40
    Watch the SUPER GT Round 5 Final Race (52 Laps, maximum extension until 15:30)
  • Around 15:25
    Participate in the Grand Finale
  • Around 16:30
    Return Home

■Arrival at the gates by 8:00 (Main Gate, Turn 1 Gate, Poolside Gate)

I think you will know the location of the viewing seats the day before, so on the second day, check the "gates other than the Main Gate" and try them if they are easier to move through.

"1 Corner Gate" is the gate at the eastern end of the Racing Course, and it is the closest gate from Ise Railway's "Suzuka Circuit Ino Station," providing convenient access to the Grandstand and Stands A, B, and C.
The "poolside gate" is also suitable for access from the east, but be careful as it leads to entry towards the park area.

 

■8:15 "FIA-F4 Rd.8 Final Race Viewing"

Let's watch the final round of the "FIA-F4" support (preliminary) race for the 2024 season, which will take place from 8:15.

FIA-F4 is a race that serves as a gateway for young drivers, producing many who compete in SUPER GT (such as Sho Tsuboi, Nirei Fukuzumi, Hiroki Otsu, Haruka Sakamoto, Ukyo Sasahara, and Toshiki Oyu). The driver who wins this Final Round may excel in next year's SUPER GT.

 

9:30 Enjoy at SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK

DUEL GP

DUEL GP

GP RACERS

GP RACERS

Honda RACING Gallery

Honda RACING Gallery

After the FIA-F4, how about heading to the SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK? The tickets for SUPER GT come with a "Park Passport" valid for both days of the weekend, so you shouldn't miss this opportunity. This time, I will introduce three recommended attractions located in the area close to the Racing Course.

Recommended Attraction 1: 'DUEL GP'
Located just north of the Honda RACING Gallery. It resembles a go-kart, allowing you to hop into a two-seater machine and enjoy a one-on-one battle with a rival, but it is actually a coaster attraction. You need to handle the steering carefully in the corners, or you could easily spin out and lose time, so delicate handling is required.

Recommended Attraction 2: 'GP RACERS'
Tandem-style coaster where two people can ride on one bike and race alongside another bike. Top riders experience the speed, gravity, and cornering of a real racing bike on this popular attraction. The layout of the course is designed to feel like racing on a real racing course. Located near GP Square, this is a must-try attraction if you have the time.

Recommended Attraction 3: Honda RACING Gallery
An exhibition facility that opened on April 5, 2024 (Fri). Through the display of historical machines, engines, and power units that have competed in actual races, centered around Formula 1, which Honda has been challenging for 60 years, you can experience Honda's commitment to victory and the technology honed in pursuit of that victory.
 

11:30 "Lunch"

After playing in the park, it's lunchtime to prepare for watching the final race.

On the 7th (Sat), we introduced information around the Racing Course, but if it is crowded or the weather is not good, we recommend the restaurants within SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK.
"Putti Town Kitchen" and "Bun Bun Pancake Shop" offer indoor dining, making them especially convenient on cold days or when visiting with children. This season, there is also a lineup of "winter limited-time menu" items, so be sure to check it out.

* The winter limited menu for the park restaurant will be announced soon.

In any case, let's finish up early so we can return to our seats by 12:40, the start of the final race, which is the highlight of this event. Taking food to go to eat in the viewing area is also a good strategy.
 

12:40 "Watching the SUPER GT Round 5 Final Race (52 Laps, Maximum Extension until 15:30)"

At 12:30, the final round of the 2024 SUPER GT, Round 5, will finally start the final race.
Enjoy the unpredictable final battle that unfolds in conditions vastly different from any race this season.

The final race consists of 52 laps around the Racing Course, and the machine that completes the laps the fastest will win.
If the race is interrupted by a red flag or other reasons and is prolonged, the maximum extension time is set until 15:30. Even if the race has not reached 52 laps, the lap at that time will be considered the final lap.

Around 15:25 "Participate in the Grand Finale"

The Grand Finale held at Mobility Resort Motegi in 2023

The Grand Finale held at Mobility Resort Motegi in 2023

The Grand Finale held at Mobility Resort Motegi in 2023

The Grand Finale held at Mobility Resort Motegi in 2023

The Grand Finale held at Mobility Resort Motegi in 2023

The Grand Finale held at Mobility Resort Motegi in 2023

After the final race, there will be an award ceremony. Following that, the "Grand Finale" that concludes this season will take place on the home straight.
This is a glamorous event where the champions of each class and drivers from all teams will take the stage, so be sure to participate. If you have a spectator ticket, you can go all the way to the home straight.

 

Around 16:30 "Return Home"

Various events and talk shows will be held even after the final race, so it's easy to lose track of time, and before you know it, the sun has completely set... This is a common experience among race spectators. It's especially important to be cautious when you need to drive home after having a great time. The phrase "The race experience isn't over until you safely get home" is often exchanged among fans. Let's cherish our souvenirs and memories, and head home safely.

 
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