Suzuka 1000km Set to Return After Hiatus
The Suzuka 1000km marks its return after a 2,213-day absence, attracting a diverse field of 33 cars and 99 drivers. This year’s event, a timed race lasting 6 hours and 30 minutes, highlights the circuit’s reputation as one of the most challenging in the world.
Strong Entry List
Despite prior concerns about the event’s ability to draw top-tier competitors, the race features a competitive lineup, including entrants from Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-AMG. The Pro class, consisting of 11 cars, holds the highest potential for overall victory, with many drivers making their Suzuka debut.
BMW has the opportunity to clinch the IGTC Manufacturer’s Championship at this event, while Porsche aims for its record-extending 12th win, its first since 1994. Mercedes-AMG, needing a strong performance to stay in contention, will rely on its past successes, having last won the race in 2018.
Notable Contenders
Goodsmile Racing enters with a historically strong lineup, featuring Nobuteru Taniguchi, Tatsuya Kataoka, and Kamui Kobayashi. With multiple championships between them, this trio aims to secure a historically significant win.
Johor Motorsports JMR competes with a Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, seeking to achieve a first for American manufacturers at Suzuka. Their all-Platinum lineup includes top talents like Alexander Sims and Nicky Catsburg, fresh off significant victories in other endurance events.
Origine Motorsport brings a Porsche 911 GT3 R adorned with a historic livery, celebrating the 1981 Suzuka 1000km victory by the Kremer team. Their driver lineup boasts recent champions, adding to their competitiveness.
Absolute Racing aims to improve on past finishes with a strong trio: Kévin Estre, Laurens Vanthoor, and Patrick Pilet. Their experience and recent momentum in the FIA WEC position them as strong contenders.
Emerging Teams
Phantom Global Racing, another rising force from China, will race a Porsche 911 GT3 R with the iconic “Pink Pig” livery, while Team Handwork Challenge represents Nissan with a GT-R NISMO GT3. Their Pro lineup includes experienced GT500 drivers looking to revitalize Nissan’s presence in the endurance racing scene.
Team WRT returns to defend their title with two BMW M4 GT3 EVOs, featuring past winners and rising stars. Drivers like Augusto Farfus and Kelvin van der Linde are expected to leverage their experience on this iconic course.
Technical Insights
The 49th Suzuka 1000km introduces Pirelli’s DHG racing tire, which is anticipated to affect race strategy significantly. The team’s adaptability to the new tire technology and the potentially reduced race duration will contribute to intense competition.
Race Details
The race is set for September 14, starting at 12:50 PM JST (3:50 AM GMT). Fans can watch live coverage, including qualifying and onboard feeds, on the official GT World YouTube channel.
As the event nears, expectations are high for both seasoned veterans and newcomers as they vie for prestige at Japan’s premier endurance race.
