02/05/2006
NEWS STORY
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According to reports, there is a strong possibility that in the wake of (Toyota owned) Fuji International Speedway winning the rights to host the 2007 Japan Grand Prix, Suzuka, owned by Honda, could host the Pacific Grand Prix, giving Japan two rounds of the World Championship.
According to Pitpass sources, Hiroshi Oshima, Operating Officer, Corporate Communications and Motor Sports, with Honda Motor Co. Ltd, has stated that Honda had applied to continue their association with the Japanese GP, but since Fuji now has the contract for the Japanese GP for October, a second race in Spring may be an option.
Japan has hosted two races in the past, having held the Pacific Grand Prix in 1994 and 1995. Therefore, it would appear that the plan is for Suzuka to host a race in the Spring, which would fit together with the Australian and Malaysian races to form an Asian leg of the championship.
If the race does go ahead next year, this would mean Suzuka hosting two Grands Prix in 6 months.
In addition to having three F1 teams - Honda, Toyota and Super Aguri - Japan currently has two drivers in the 2006 World Championship, though that could change in the coming weeks should Yuji Ide fail to improve.