Akeno Circuit

This is the information and history about Akeno Circuit

### Basic Info:

The International Akeno Circuit has a rich history that spans the evolution of two distinct tracks before their harmonious merger. Let's explore the intriguing narrative of Akeno Speedway and the Akeno Highland Circuit.

## History:

##### **Akeno Speedway (1970s)**

In the early 1970s, the fervor for motorsport inspired the creation of Akeno Speedway. This track had a distinctive design, featuring a high-speed track with four challenging curves seamlessly integrated into an inner track. Akeno Speedway quickly became a hub for club and commercial events, gaining popularity for its driver-friendly track and high-quality facilities.

##### **Akeno Highland Circuit (Early 1980s)**

In the early 1980s, the racing scene witnessed the arrival of the Akeno Highland Circuit. Nestled among rolling hills, this track featured an exciting and fast winding course, famous for its serpentine-shaped curves. Despite a smaller pit area, the superior design attracted professional teams and racing series, making the Akeno Highland Circuit the preferred venue for training and competitive races.

##### **Merger and Formation of the International Akeno Circuit (Late 1980s)**

The idea of uniting Akeno Speedway and the Akeno Highland Circuit to potentially host the Japanese Grand Prix in the late 1980s reflects the ambition of racing enthusiasts and circuit management in Japan. The need to preserve the unique characteristics of both tracks while creating a layout that connects them is a significant challenge but demonstrates a commitment to providing an exceptional racing experience.

The mention of following a long path, with years of waiting and guidelines to be followed, suggests that merging the tracks and the quest to host the Japanese Grand Prix were complex endeavors involving not only engineering issues but also necessary regulations and approvals. This story illustrates how organizing large-scale sporting events like the Grand Prix requires planning, collective effort, and patience to overcome challenges and obstacles.

##### **Ambition and Challenges of the Japanese Grand Prix**

With years of delays in construction, the management of both circuits questioned whether they should continue the work. However, the opportunity to host the 1987 Grand Prix at the International Akeno Circuit emerged, a valuable opportunity as both managements believed.

Nevertheless, the delayed construction and the possibility of not being completed in time for that year's Grand Prix led the management to choose to hold the event at Suzuka. This decision remained unchanged until 2006 when the exclusivity contract between Suzuka and the Grand Prix came to an end, offering the International Akeno Circuit the opportunity to host the Japanese Grand Prix once again.

##### **Opportunity resurfaces, but regret lingers**

After a thorough circuit review, aimed at aligning it with the stringent standards required by the Grand Prix, it was concluded that the Akeno International Circuit did not fully meet the category's expectations.

##### **Ongoing Legacy**

Over the years, the International Akeno Circuit has maintained its stature as a beloved racing venue. Its dual heritage of Akeno Speedway and the Akeno Highland Circuit contributes to a variety of events, perfectly accommodating both professional races and grassroots motorsport activities. Today, the circuit stands as a testament to the passion and collaborative spirit that shaped its history, offering enthusiasts an exciting experience on its iconic tracks.