Suzuka is Scalextric IRL - 2022 Japanese GP Preview

Suzuka is special, for the teams-drivers, for Honda & for Yuki Tsunoda. But above all else, it's special for the Japanese Formula 1 fans. They're a different breed altogether. Passionate, knowledgeable, respectful & humble. We're only glad that they'll get their taste of Formula 1 for the first time since 2019. And definitely, their super-cool merchandise is the one thing we're going to look out for at every session.

Come to think of it, Suzuka is like Scaletrix in real life! It's the ONLY circuit with a figure of eight corner, that means that the circuit is both, clock-wise & anti-clock-wise. So it's only apt that we use this reference in our 2022 Japanese Grand Prix preview episode. Tune in!

(Season 2022, Episode 60)

Follow our hosts: Sundaram Ramaswami, Soumil Arora and Kunal Shah

Image courtesy: Red Bull Content Pool

- The Japanese Grand Prix is a highly anticipated race, especially for the passionate and knowledgeable Japanese Formula One fans, who are known for their creativity, respect, and humbleness.


- The Suzuka Circuit is a unique figure-of-eight track that combines clockwise and anti-clockwise sections, making it a challenging and exciting circuit for drivers.


- The 2022 Japanese Grand Prix could potentially see Max Verstappen clinch the World Championship title if he manages to gain a 112-point lead over Sergio Perez and Charles Leclerc.


- Honda, the former engine supplier for Red Bull Racing, will have a more prominent branding presence at the race weekend, and rumors suggest a potential return to Formula One in 2026.


- The Japanese fans are expected to showcase their creative merchandise, including hats and masks inspired by Formula One teams and drivers.


- The Suzuka Circuit is known for its technical and challenging nature, with a high-speed first sector that demands precision and bravery from drivers.


- The first corner at Suzuka doesn't require braking on entry, generating some of the highest steering wheel torques of the season.


- The continuously moving steering wheel throughout the lap, especially in the first sector, highlights the technical demands of the circuit.


- The balanced number of right-handers and left-handers ensures equal tire wear, making tire strategy crucial for teams.


- The anti-clockwise and clockwise sections of the circuit, along with the tunnel, create a unique and visually appealing layout.


- The race weekend presents a challenge for fans in the eastern coast of the US, with the race starting at 3 am.


- Sergio Perez's recent strong performance in Singapore has raised questions about whether it was a one-off or a sign of a sustained improvement in form.


- Charles Leclerc's quest for a fourth consecutive podium finish matches his career-best podium streak in 2019.


- Ferrari's recent slump is attributed to the new technical directive issued by the FIA, which has impacted their tire wear and front-limited performance.


- Mercedes' first terrible weekend of the season in Singapore has raised doubts about their ability to catch up and challenge for the championship.


- Yuki Tsunoda, the Japanese home hero, is eager to perform well in his home race and make up for his error in Singapore.


- Suzuka's qualifying is crucial as front-row starts have historically led to most wins, but overtaking opportunities exist throughout the lap.


- A prediction for the race is Max Verstappen winning, with Mercedes potentially sacrificing a driver's fastest lap to prevent Verstappen from clinching the title in Japan.

# Japanese Grand Prix Preview: A Scaletrix in Real Life

**Introduction**

In this episode, the hosts delve into the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix, held at the iconic Suzuka Circuit. They discuss the unique characteristics of the track, the passionate Japanese Formula 1 fans, and the excitement surrounding the return of the race after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

**Suzuka Circuit: A Unique Challenge**

The Suzuka Circuit is renowned for its challenging layout, featuring a combination of high-speed straights, technical corners, and the famous figure-of-eight section, which makes it the only circuit with both clockwise and anti-clockwise sections. The hosts compare the circuit to a real-life Scaletrix, highlighting its complexity and the skills required to navigate it successfully.

**Japanese Formula 1 Fans: A Passionate and Knowledgeable Crowd**

The Japanese Formula 1 fans are widely regarded as some of the most passionate and knowledgeable in the world. The hosts emphasize the respectful and humble nature of the Japanese fans, creating a unique atmosphere at the Suzuka Circuit. They also mention the distinctive merchandise sported by the fans, which adds to the vibrant spectacle of the race weekend.

**Predictions for the Japanese Grand Prix**

While acknowledging the possibility of Max Verstappen securing the world championship in Japan, the hosts refrain from making a definitive prediction. They express their personal preference for Carlos Sainz but acknowledge that Verstappen is the likely favorite based on his dominant performances this season.

**FIA Update on Cost Cap Investigation**

The hosts briefly mention an update from the FIA regarding the ongoing cost cap investigation. They express disappointment at the delay in releasing the findings, with the FIA now targeting October 10th for an update. The hosts criticize the FIA's handling of the situation, suggesting that they are buying time rather than providing concrete information.

**Conclusion**

The hosts conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to leave ratings and reviews for the podcast. They also remind listeners about the upcoming Japanese GP Race Review episode, expressing their hope to connect with the audience on Sunday.