Formula One returns to Fuji speedway after 30 years. Most of the present drivers weren't even born when the last race was held at this circuit. Let us see a little more about this circuit, which has replaced Suzuka for this year's Japanese Grand Prix.
It was the Mount Fuji circuit that first introduced Formula One to Japan with Grand Prix in 1976 and 1977, both dramatic events for different reasons. Fuji International Speedway was originally planned as a giant super speedway, but the plan was eventually scrapped for lack of funds. It lies 64 Km (40 miles) west of Yokohama in the shadow of the perfectly conical dormant volcano, Mount Fuji. The main feature of the 4.3 Km (2.67 mile) track was the long front straight and sweeping right-handed corner leading onto it.
The first Formula One action at the track was one of the sport's most dramatic afternoons, the final race of the 1976 campaign. All eyes were on Niki Lauda, racing just three months after his near-fatal accident at the Nurburgring. He was just three points ahead of Britain's James Hunt in the race for the World championship. Typical of the Mount Fuji region, the day was wet. Very wet. Although the start was delayed to see if conditions improved, they were still very bad by the time race got under way. Lauda, doubtlessly mindful of his recent brush with death, decided that it was not worth risking his life in pursuit of the world championship and parked his Ferrari in the pits after just three laps.
Hunt needed to earn third place and, after pitting for tyres late in the race, he rejoined in fifth place with four laps to go. Fortunately for him others were also suffering from bad tyre wear. Hunt managed to make it past Clay Regazzoni and Alan Jones to finish third and claim the championship title.
The following year Hunt won the race after a collision between Gilles Villeneuve and Ronnie Peterson sent Villeneuve's car flying into prohibited area, killing two spectators.
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