Welcome to the Japan F1 24 Track Guide!
Learn how to master the iconic Suzuka Circuit with this detailed breakdown of each sector, corner-by-corner tips, previous pole lap benchmarks, and essential car setup advice. Known for its sweeping bends, high-speed corners, and rich history, Suzuka is one of the most challenging circuits on the Formula 1 calendar. Whether you’re an experienced sim racer or just starting out, this guide will help you tackle the legendary Japan Grand Prix circuit.
Circuit Overview
- Location: Suzuka Circuit, Suzuka, Japan
- Length: 5.807 km (3.609 miles)
- Corners: 18
- DRS Zones: 1
- Layout: A technical, figure-eight layout known for its high-speed corners and challenging elevation changes.
- Surface: Smooth, high-grip tarmac, but the track can be slippery in wet conditions, requiring precise tire management.
- Unique Feature: Suzuka is one of the few figure-eight circuits in the world, with a blend of fast, flowing sections and tight, technical corners. Its combination of high-speed corners like the famous 130R and the difficult “S” Curves makes it a favorite among drivers and fans alike.
Sector 1: Corners 1–7
- Turn 1-2:
A double-apex right-hander marks the start of your lap in Japan. Coming off the main straight, brake late and ease off progressively into Turn 2, prioritizing exit speed for the Esses. This initial sequence sets the tone for the rest of your lap around Japan’s iconic circuit. - Turns 3–6 (The Esses):
The Esses are one of the most famous corner sequences in Japan. This series of flowing left-right bends demands precise throttle control and smooth steering inputs. Staying close to the inside curbs is key, but avoid mounting them, as this can easily unsettle your car. Navigating these bends efficiently is crucial for a strong Sector 1 time in Japan. - Turn 7 (Dunlop Curve):
A fast uphill left-hander that tests your car’s stability and your precision. Keep the throttle steady and use the full width of the track. This corner embodies the flow and technicality of racing in Japan.
Sector 2: Corners 8–14
- Turns 8 and 9 (Degner 1 and Degner 2):
These two tight right-handers are some of the trickiest corners in Japan. With limited run-off, a mistake here can ruin your lap. Brake early for Turn 9 and focus on a clean exit to set yourself up for the short straight before Turn 10. - Turn 10:
This is a small kink to the right before the hairpin. It’s crucial to approach it with the correct line to ensure you can brake in a straight line for the hairpin, maintaining stability and precision. - Turn 11 (Hairpin):
The Suzuka hairpin is a tight left-hander and one of the best overtaking opportunities in Japan. Heavy braking is required, and you’ll need to focus on a smooth exit to maximize acceleration through the following section. - Turn 12 (200 R):
Getting a strong exit from the hairpin is crucial to carry maximum speed through Turn 12, which leads into the Spoon Curve. Taken flat-out, Turn 12 requires minimal steering input to avoid scrubbing speed and maintain momentum. Gentle and precise steering will ensure a smooth line through this high-speed section. - Turns 13 and 14 (Spoon Curve):
Spoon Curve is one of the most challenging sections in Japan. This double-apex left-hander demands precision. Brake lightly into the first apex, stay tight, and carry as much speed as possible through the second apex to prepare for the long back straight.
Sector 3: Corners 15–18
- Turn 15 (130R):
One of the most thrilling high-speed corners in Japan and a highlight of Suzuka. In the modern era of F1 130R is taken completely flat out, aim for a smooth entry and exit to maintain top speed through this iconic corner. - Turns 16–17 (Casio Triangle):
The sharp chicane that marks the final challenge at Suzuka in Japan. Brake hard and stay tight to the apexes, focusing on a clean exit to maximize speed across the line. This corner can make or break your lap, especially in the high-pressure environment of Japan’s Grand Prix. - Turns 18 (Last Curve):
The last corner of the circuit leads onto the main straight, making a strong exit from the chicane essential. Apply the throttle gently to maximize traction, keeping steering inputs smooth and shallow. Let the car naturally drift to the outside of the track to minimize speed loss. During a qualifying lap, drivers often hug the inside of the circuit after the exit to reduce the lap distance.
Full Qualifying Lap
Experience the full qualifying lap of the iconic Japan Grand Prix circuit, showcasing every twist, turn, and precision move needed to master this legendary track.
Previous Pole Lap Times at Suzuka
Here are the pole lap times for the Japan Grand Prix over the past five years:
- 2024 Pole Lap: Max Verstappen – 1:28.197
- 2023 Pole Lap: Max Verstappen – 1:28.877
- 2022 Pole Lap: Max Verstappen – 1:29.304
- 2021 Pole Lap: Cancelled – Covid-19
- 2020 Pole Lap: Cancelled – Covid-19
Personal Lap Reflection
I was reasonably satisfied with this lap, although Suzuka isn’t a track I usually excel at, despite my appreciation for its iconic layout. The setup I used for this lap felt stable and performed well, even in wet conditions. I opted for a balanced, intermediate setup to account for Japan’s notoriously unpredictable weather.
Suzuka is a legendary circuit that often delivers thrilling racing. While overtaking opportunities are limited, key chances arise at the hairpin and the chicane. The rest of the lap demands absolute precision, commitment, and confidence to achieve a strong lap time, making every sector a true test of skill.
I might not be an Esports-level driver—those racers are in a league of their own—but that’s the magic of sim racing: it’s a sport for everyone. Whether you’re racing on a console or PC, with a controller or a high-end rig, sim racing offers endless enjoyment and the chance to refine your skills. It’s not just about nailing the perfect lap; it’s about the thrill of the race, the challenge of improvement, and the shared excitement of the sport. So fire up your gear, get in the zone, and let’s take on Suzuka together!
Beyond my love for sim racing, I’m a dedicated Formula 1 fan, and that passion fuels guides like this. I’d love to hear how this setup works for you and the lap times you’re able to achieve at Suzuka. Share your experiences and any memorable moments you’ve had on this legendary circuit in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the art of racing and inspire each other to keep pushing the limits!
Japan F1 24 Setup
For my Japan F1 24 Grand Prix qualifying lap, I used a setup tailored for a 35% race distance with 100 AI difficulty. This setup offers a balanced foundation that you can tweak to suit your driving style. I’ve opted for a “set it and forget it” approach, ensuring you won’t need to adjust the brake bias or on-throttle differential mid-race. It’s an ideal setup if you prefer focusing on the race without worrying about in-the-moment adjustments.
| Aerodynamics | Front wing | 42 |
| Rear wing | 32 | |
| Transmission | Differential on-throttle | 55% |
| Differential off-throttle | 40% | |
| Engine braking | 80% | |
| Suspension Geometry | Front camber | -3.50 |
| Rear camber | -2.20 | |
| Front toe-out | 0.10 | |
| Rear toe-in | 0.10 | |
| Suspension | Front suspension | 41 |
| Rear suspension | 5 | |
| Front anti-roll bar | 21 | |
| Rear anti-roll bar | 12 | |
| Front ride height | 27 | |
| Rear ride height | 60 | |
| Brakes | Brake pressure | 100% |
| Front brake bias | 55% | |
| Tyres | Front right tyre pressure | 27.0psi |
| Front left tyre pressure | 27.0psi | |
| Rear right tyre pressure | 25.0psi | |
| Rear left tyre pressure | 25.0psi |
Memorable Moments of the Japanese Grand Prix
- Senna vs. Prost Collision (1989):
The infamous clash between Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost at the Casio Triangle decided the championship in Prost’s favour. It’s one of the most controversial moments in F1 history. - Senna’s Revenge (1990):
In a dramatic rematch, Senna collided with Prost at Turn 1 on the opening lap, securing his second World Championship in highly debated fashion. - Schumacher’s First Title with Ferrari (2000):
Michael Schumacher clinched his third World Championship and Ferrari’s first drivers’ title in 21 years after an intense battle with Mika Häkkinen. - Vettel’s Dominance (2011):
Sebastian Vettel secured his second World Championship at Suzuka with a stellar performance, cementing Red Bull’s dominance in the early 2010s. - Tragic Loss of Jules Bianchi (2014):
The race is forever marked by the tragic accident of Jules Bianchi, whose crash led to significant safety improvements in Formula 1.
Conclusion
Suzuka is a circuit that truly tests a driver’s skill, precision, and confidence. From the flowing Esses in Sector 1 to the technical challenges of the Spoon Curve and the high-speed bravery required at 130R, this track offers a thrilling and rewarding experience for those willing to take on its complexities. While overtaking can be a challenge, the hairpin and chicane present crucial opportunities to make a move.
For me, this lap was a mix of satisfaction and areas for improvement. Suzuka’s unpredictable weather and iconic layout keep every race exciting, ensuring there’s always something new to learn. Whether you’re a seasoned sim racer or tackling this track for the first time, Suzuka is a must-master circuit that will push you to your limits.
Now it’s over to you—time to hit the track, push the limits, and enjoy every moment. Lights out, and away we go!
I put together this track guide using my trusty Fanatec GT DD Pro 8Nm racing wheel paired with the F1 Esports V2 rim, along with modded CSL pedals for that extra responsiveness. I race on the PS5, seated comfortably in my modified Playseat Challenge. To elevate my performance even further, I gear up with specialized gloves and boots that provide the perfect grip and feel. This setup has truly enhanced my control and precision on the track, making every racing session not just competitive, but incredibly enjoyable!
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