Japan has a long and storied history of auto racing, and many of the country’s best drivers are considered among the elite in the sport. From legendary Formula One drivers to rally and touring car champions, the Japanese have left an indelible mark on motorsport.
Today, some of the most successful and talented drivers in the world are Japanese, and they continue to be a powerful force in the world of auto racing.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the best auto racing players in Japan, and why they have achieved such success.
1. Kamui Kobayashi
Kamui Kobayashi is a Japanese racing driver who has raced in a variety of motorsport categories across the globe. He currently competes in the FIA World Endurance Championship for Toyota Gazoo Racing and the Super Formula Championship for KCMG.
Furthermore, he has previously raced in Formula One, Formula E, the GP2 Series and even the GP2 Asia Series. Kamui has had a long and illustrious racing career, beginning when he started racing in karts in 1996.
His success in karts eventually saw him competing in Formula Renault V6 Eurocup in 2005, where he won the championship. From there, he moved up to the Formula Three Euro Series, before making the jump to Formula One in 2009.
That same year, he also competed in the GP2 Series and the GP2 Asia Series, where he achieved a podium finish. In 2010, Kobayashi joined the Sauber Formula One team, where he stayed for three years before moving to Caterham in 2013.
After two years in Formula One, he moved to the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2015, where he has competed for Toyota Gazoo Racing ever since. He also competes in the Super Formula Championship for KCMG, where he has achieved multiple podium finishes.
Kamui Kobayashi is a highly successful racing driver, having competed in a variety of motorsport categories across the globe. His impressive racing career is testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
2. Toshio Suzuki
Toshio Suzuki is a renowned former racing driver from Saitama Prefecture, Japan. He was born in 1974 and has been a lifelong resident of Saitama Prefecture.
Throughout his career, Suzuki has competed in various different racing series, including the Japanese Formula 3 Championship, the Japanese Formula 2 Championship, and the Super GT series.
In addition, Suzuki has also competed in the world-famous 24 Hours of Le Mans. Suzuki’s career highlights include winning the Japanese Formula 3 Championship in 1996, as well as finishing second in the Japanese Formula 2 Championship in 2009.
He has also had success racing in the Super GT series, where he won the GT300 class title in 2006.
At the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Suzuki achieved a notable result in 2012, finishing third in the GTE Pro class. Since retiring from professional racing in 2016, Suzuki has remained involved in motor racing as a Team Manager for the Honda Racing Team, managing the team’s efforts in the Super GT and Super Formula series.
His experience and expertise have been invaluable to the team, and have helped the team to achieve great success over the years. In 2017, Suzuki was inducted into the Japanese Motorsports Hall of Fame in recognition of his successful career as a driver and manager.
It is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport, and his legacy will live on for many years.
3. Hideshi Matsuda
Hideshi Matsuda is a renowned Japanese car racer and TV reporter. He is well-known for his participation in several 24-hour races, including the iconic Daytona and LeMans.
He has also raced four times in the Indianapolis 500, from 1994 to 1996 and 1999, representing Beck Motorsports. In addition, he made an appearance in a single CART Championship Car race at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in his home country of Japan.
As a driver, Hideshi Matsuda has achieved considerable success, having earned multiple podium finishes in the 24-hour races and the Indy 500.
His success as a driver is matched by his career as a TV reporter, where he provides viewers with informative and entertaining coverage of the races that he competes in.
4. Iori Kimura
Iori Kimura is a professional racing driver who competes in two high-level motorsports series. Kimura is a Russian-Japanese driver, meaning he has dual nationalities.
He currently competes in Super Formula Lights and Super GT, two of the most prestigious motorsports series in the world. Super Formula Lights is a single-seater open-wheel racing series that originated in Japan in 2014 and has since grown in popularity around the world.
Super GT, on the other hand, is a touring car racing series that has been running since 1993. It is considered to be one of the most popular and competitive motorsports series in the world. Kimura’s success in these series is a testament to his skill as a driver.
He has earned multiple podium finishes in both series, proving his ability to compete with some of the best drivers in the world.
5. Hiroshi Kazato
Hiroshi Kazato was a Japanese racecar driver who started his career at a young age of 19. He made his mark in history by competing in the 1971 Can-Am season, and was able to finish 10th in the championship with a Lola T222-Chevrolet.
He then continued to pursue his racing career by taking part in Formula Two European seasons in 1972 and 1973, where he was able to score a total of 7 championship points.
His extraordinary talent and ambition for speed racing allowed him to quickly gain recognition and success in the motorsport world. During his career, Kazato achieved a number of accomplishments, including winning the Fuji Cup and the Japanese Grand Prix in 1973.
He will always be remembered for his passion and skill in the world of motorsport.
6. Hiro Matsushita
Hiroyuki Matsushita, more commonly known as Hiro Matsushita, is a Japanese businessman and former racing driver. He is the grandson of Kōnosuke Matsushita, who founded the well-known electronics company, Panasonic, in 1918.
Kōnosuke’s son, Masaharu Matsushita, served as the second president of Panasonic for sixteen years, starting in 1961.
Thus, Hiro Matsushita is part of a renowned family that has a long history in the electronics industry. Hiro Matsushita’s passion for racing drove him to pursue a career as a driver, and he achieved success by winning the Japanese Formula 3 championship in 1989.
He also formed his own team, the Matsushita Motorsport, in the IndyCar series.
After retiring from racing, he moved to the business side of the industry and became an executive for various companies, including Panasonic. Hiro Matsushita has been involved in various philanthropic activities, such as the Matsushita Memorial Foundation, which works to promote the development of education, culture, and science in Japan.
He is also a passionate advocate for the protection of the environment and an active member of many organizations that focus on environmental sustainability. Overall, the legacy of Hiroyuki Matsushita, or Hiro Matsushita, is one of success and commitment to his family, his profession, and his philanthropic endeavors.
He is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, as well as a reminder that one’s family heritage can shape and guide us in our own pursuits.
7. Satoru Nakajima
Satoru Nakajima is a Japanese former racing driver who achieved tremendous success in his career. He is a five-time champion of the Japanese Top Formula, a prestigious motor racing championship.
He was the first full-time Japanese Formula One driver, a remarkable accomplishment that made him a household name in the motorsport world.Nakajima’s racing career began in the early 1980s when he competed in the All-Japan Formula Three Championship.
He won the championship in 1985 and moved up to the Japanese Formula 2000 championship. He won the championship in 1989 and 1990, and then moved up to the Japanese Top Formula series.
Nakajima won the championship five times between 1991 and 1996, cementing his place as one of the greatest drivers in Japanese motorsport history.In 1987, Nakajima became the first full-time Japanese Formula One driver when he joined the Tyrrell Racing team.
He competed in all 16 races of the season, scoring points in three of them. While Nakajima never won a Formula One race, he was a consistent points scorer and achieved respectable results.
His career in Formula One culminated with an eighth-place finish in the 1995 Japanese Grand Prix. Nakajima’s legacy in motorsport is undeniable.
He was the first full-time Japanese Formula One driver, and his five Japanese Top Formula championships make him one of the greatest drivers in Japanese motorsport history.
His achievements are an inspiration to future generations of Japanese drivers, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
8. Yuki Tsunoda
Yuki Tsunoda is an up-and-coming Japanese racing driver in Formula One. He currently drives for Scuderia AlphaTauri, a team that has been backed by Honda since 2016.
This support comes from the Honda Formula Dream Project, which helped Tsunoda become the 2018 Japanese F4 champion. His success has also earned him the support of Red Bull, one of the most successful teams in Formula One.
With the help of these two entities, Tsunoda is looking to make a major impact in the world of Formula One. He has already made a great start and is looking to continue to progress in the sport.
9. Kazuyoshi Hoshino
Kazuyoshi Hoshino is an accomplished and highly regarded Japanese individual. He is a former racing driver who achieved great success in his career. After retiring from racing, he went on to become a successful business owner and entrepreneur.
He has also been involved in the motor racing industry in various capacities, including as a team owner and an official in the Super GT series. He is considered a respected figure in the motor racing world and is credited with having helped to popularize the sport in Japan.
Hoshino has also been involved in various charitable works, contributing to the development of education and sports in his country. He is an example of how one can have a successful career in motor racing and parlay that success into other areas of business and life.
10. Kunimitsu Takahashi
Kunimitsu Takahashi was an exceptionally talented and successful Japanese motorcycle road racer, racing driver, and team manager. Spanning nearly four decades, his career began in 1958 and ended in 1999.
During this time, he earned the nickname “Kuni-san” and the title “father of drifting.”Takahashi’s skills as a motorcycle racer were renowned.
He won numerous championships throughout his career, including the All-Japan Grand Prix Championship in 1961, the Japan Grand Prix Championship in 1962, and the All-Japan Championship in 1963.
He also achieved success as a racing driver, competing in the Formula Two Japanese Grand Prix in 1967.
His talents and dedication to the sport earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans around the world. In addition to his own racing career, Takahashi served as team manager for several racing teams, including the Hayashi Racing Team and the Yamaha Factory Racing Team.
He was responsible for developing the driving style now known as “drifting.” This style involves taking a high-speed turn with the rear of the car sliding out, allowing the driver to take the corner with more speed and control.
Takahashi’s influence on this style of driving earned him the title of “father of drifting.”Kunimitsu Takahashi was a highly respected figure in the world of racing, and his legacy lives on to this day.
He was an exceptional racer, team manager, and driving innovator, and his contributions to the sport are still celebrated.
11. Kazuki Nakajima
Kazuki Nakajima is a retired Japanese professional racing driver who had a successful career in Formula One. From 2007 to 2009, he drove for the Williams-Toyota team, competing in various Formula One Grand Prix races.
In 2012 and 2014, Nakajima went on to win the Super Formula Championship, driving for the TOM’S team. His success in the Super Formula Championship is a testament to his skill and commitment in the sport. Nakajima’s accomplishments in Formula One and Super Formula are impressive.
His wins in the Super Formula Championship demonstrate his ability to perform at a high level in the sport.
He was also able to maintain consistent performance throughout his career, showing his dedication and commitment to the sport of professional racing. Nakajima is a respected figure in the world of racing. He is an example of how hard work and dedication can pay off.
He has achieved success in both Formula One and Super Formula, setting an example for other drivers to follow. His success is an inspiration to all racing fans.
12. Masahiro Hasemi
Masahiro Hasemi is a well-known name in the racing world. He was born in Japan and started racing motocross when he was just 15 years old. His passion for racing led him to sign with the Nissan team in 1964.
Throughout his career, he was able to win multiple championships and awards in both Japan and abroad.Hashemi didn’t just focus on driving. He also started his own racing team in 1989. His team was very successful, winning the Japanese Grand Touring Championship in 1992.
Hasemi was also part of the team that managed to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995. Hasemi retired from racing in 1998, but his legacy still lives on. He is considered one of the greatest Japanese racing drivers of all time and continues to be an inspiration to many.
His passion for racing and dedication to the sport is something that will never be forgotten.
13. Ukyo Katayama
Ukyo Katayama is a Japanese racing driver and team manager who is most well-known for his six-year tenure in Formula One. He began his Formula One career on 1 March 1992 and went on to compete in 97 Grand Prix races.
During his time in Formula One, Katayama earned a total of five championship points, all of which were for the Tyrrell team in 1994. Katayama’s career in Formula One began with the Larrousse team in 1992, and he moved to the Tyrrell team in 1994.
During his time with the Tyrrell team, he earned three championship points in the Spanish Grand Prix, one in the Italian Grand Prix, and one in the European Grand Prix.
Despite these successes, Katayama only achieved two top-ten finishes in his entire Formula One career. After leaving Formula One, Katayama moved to the Super GT Series in Japan, where he raced until his retirement in 2005.
During this time, he also acted as a team manager, managing several Super GT teams such as the OKINAWA-YOKOHAMA Racing Team. Katayama also managed the Super GT team for Lexus, which was sponsored by Toyota. Katayama’s legacy in Formula One and Super GT is still remembered today.
He is remembered for his consistent performance and his ability to adapt to different racing teams. Katayama’s career is an inspiration to many Japanese racing drivers who are looking to make their mark in the world of motorsports.
14. Hiroshi Fushida
Hiroshi Fushida is an iconic figure in the racing world.
He has made an indelible mark in the history of motorsport, becoming the first Japanese driver to enter the Formula One World Championship Grand Prix and to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. Fushida’s Formula One career began in 1976 when he was signed by the Japanese team, Team Kojima, to compete in the Japanese Grand Prix.
His debut was the first time a Japanese driver had ever entered a Formula One race.
Although his performance at the race was not particularly notable, he had made history by being the first Japanese driver to compete in the world’s premier racing series. Fushida continued to race in Formula One until the end of the 1979 season, but he never achieved a podium finish in the World Championship.
His most successful race was in the 1978 Canadian Grand Prix, where he finished in fifth place. In addition to his Formula One career, Fushida also made history in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race.
In 1981, he became the first Japanese driver to enter the event, finishing in 11th place overall.
Despite not finishing in a podium position, Fushida had made an impact in the racing world by becoming the first Japanese driver to compete in the prestigious event. Hiroshi Fushida has left a lasting legacy in the racing world.
His pioneering spirit and drive to achieve greatness has made him an inspirational figure in the world of motorsport.
He will forever be remembered as the first Japanese driver to enter the Formula One World Championship Grand Prix and to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race.
15. Sakon Yamamoto
Sakon Yamamoto is a unique figure in motorsport.
He is a Japanese racing driver who, after competing in Formula One for 21 Grands Prix between 2006 and 2010, decided to switch careers and become a politician. Yamamoto first entered Formula One in 2006 when he was signed as a test driver for Super Aguri.
His first competitive race was in the 2007 Australian Grand Prix, where he finished in 15th place. He raced for Super Aguri for the remainder of the 2007 season and then switched to the Spyker team in 2008.
The following year, he returned to Super Aguri before joining the HRT team in 2010. He competed in the final three races of the season before bowing out of Formula One. Despite his relatively short career in Formula One, Yamamoto made a lasting impression.
During his time in the sport, he earned the respect of his peers and developed a strong following of fans.
He also developed a strong relationship with the Japanese motorsport community, which helped pave the way for his move into politics. Today, Yamamoto is a member of the Japanese House of Councillors. He is a vocal advocate for motorsport, particularly in his native Japan.
He is also a strong supporter of young drivers and has been credited with helping to nurture the next generation of Japanese racing talent. For Sakon Yamamoto, his motorsport career was just the beginning.
After learning the ropes of the racing world, he has gone on to make a real impact in the political arena. His story is an inspiring one for aspiring racers and serves as a reminder of the potential for success in any field.
16. Shinji Nakano
Shinji Nakano is a Japanese professional racing driver, following in the footsteps of his father, Tsuneharu. Tsuneharu was also a racing driver, competing in the All-Japan Formula Three Championship.
This championship is a prominent motorsport series in Japan and is considered a stepping stone for aspiring drivers. It is believed that Tsuneharu’s success in the All-Japan Formula Three Championship gave Shinji the motivation to pursue a career in racing.
Shinji has since gone on to become a successful professional racing driver, achieving several wins and podium finishes. He has also been a test and reserve driver for several teams in the Formula 1 championship.
Shinji’s story is an inspiring one and he is a great example of how dedication and perseverance can lead to success in the world of motorsport.
17. Hideki Noda
Hideki Noda is a Japanese professional racing driver who has had a successful career in motorsports. He is best known for his participation in Formula One, the highest class of single-seater auto racing.
Noda competed in three Formula One Grands Prix, beginning with the 1994 European Grand Prix. Despite a promising start, he was unable to score any championship points in these races.
Noda’s Formula One career began in 1994 when he was invited to compete in the European Grand Prix. This race was held at Donington Park in the United Kingdom and marked his Formula One début.
Despite his best efforts, he was unable to achieve a podium finish and finished in 22nd place. He then took part in the Pacific Grand Prix held at Aida in Japan. This time he finished in 17th place, again without scoring any championship points.
His final Formula One race was the Australian Grand Prix at Adelaide Street Circuit, where he finished in 19th place. Although Hideki Noda was not able to score any points in his three Formula One races, he still made a mark on the sport.
He is remembered as a talented driver who was able to compete at the highest level of motorsport. His career serves as an inspiration to aspiring drivers all over the world.
18. Noritake Takahara
Noritake Takahara is a former Japanese racing driver who competed in two Formula One World Championship Grands Prix races. He made his debut on October 24, 1976, but was unable to gain any championship points.
Takahara was part of a historic moment for Japanese drivers, as he, along with compatriots Masahiro Hasemi and Kazuyoshi Hoshino, became the first Japanese drivers to start a Formula One Grand Prix.
This was a significant achievement for Takahara, as he was able to make his mark in the sport and pave the way for future Japanese drivers in Formula One.
Takahara’s participation in the two races was seen as a major milestone for Japanese racing, as it helped create a path for others to follow in his footsteps. Takahara’s legacy as the first Japanese driver to start a Formula One Grand Prix will always be remembered.
19. Toranosuke Takagi
Toranosuke Takagi, known as “Tora,” is a retired Japanese racing driver. He is best known for his success in the Japanese Formula 3 championship and the All-Japan GT Championship.
He is also a former Formula One driver, driving for the Tyrrell and Arrows teams in 2000 and 2001, respectively. Tora first began his career in 1988 in the Japanese Formula 3 championship, where he won his first race.
Over the next five years, he won four titles, demonstrating his talent for open wheel racing. This success resulted in his promotion to the highest level of Japanese motorsport, the All-Japan GT Championship.
He went on to win the championship three times between 1996 and 2003. In 2000, Tora was given the opportunity to drive in Formula One, becoming the first Japanese driver to compete in the sport since Aguri Suzuki in 1995.
He drove for the Tyrrell team for the entire season, collecting two points with a fifth place finish in the Malaysian Grand Prix.
The following year, he switched to the Arrows team, where he scored a point in the European Grand Prix. Tora retired from Formula One in 2002 and returned to the All-Japan GT Championship, where he won the championship one more time in 2003.
He has since gone on to serve as a test and development driver for several Formula One teams and is currently a development driver for Toyota’s Formula One team.
Toranosuke Takagi is a testament to the talent of Japanese drivers and has certainly made a lasting impression on the sport.
20. Yuji Ide
Yuji Ide is a Japanese racing driver who has had an impressive motorsport career. He was the runner-up in the 2005 Formula Nippon and won the 2010 Suzuka 1000km, a prestigious race in Japan.
In 2006, Ide was given the opportunity to compete in Formula One with the Super Aguri team. However, after only four races, he was demoted to third driver and subsequently lost his FIA Super Licence, which is required to compete in Formula One.
This meant that Ide was no longer able to compete in the top-level motorsport, but he continued to race in other motorsport series in Japan. Despite his short stint in Formula One, Ide’s successes in other racing series have made him a respected figure in the motorsport world.
21. Taki Inoue
Takachiho Inoue, known as Taki Inoue, is a retired Japanese racing driver. He started his career in the Formula Cup Japan series in 1988 and quickly established himself as one of the top drivers in the sport.
After winning the championship in 1989, he moved on to compete in the All Japan Formula 3 series. He won the championship in 1991 and 1992 and then switched to the Japanese GT Championship in 1993.
Inoue went on to have a successful career in GT racing, winning multiple championships and setting many lap records. In 1997, Inoue retired from professional racing and has since become a successful businessman.
His experience in the motorsport world has helped him to become a successful entrepreneur, and he now owns a number of companies. Inoue remains an important figure in the motorsport history of Japan and is remembered for his success in the sport.
22. Naoki Hattori
Naoki Hattori is an accomplished motoring journalist and racing driver from Japan. He has achieved great success in his career, particularly in 1990 when he won the Japanese Formula 3 championship.
This success earned him an opportunity to compete in Formula One Grands Prix with Coloni in 1991. However, despite his success in the Formula 3 championship, his performance at the Grands Prix was not enough to secure him a spot in the main event.
He was only able to pre-qualify for two Formula One Grands Prix during that season but ultimately failed to qualify for the final race.
Despite this setback, Naoki Hattori continues to remain an influential figure in the world of motorsports, both as a journalist and as a driver.
23. Masami Kuwashima
Masami Kuwashima is a former race car driver from Japan. Born and raised in the Land of the Rising Sun, Masami had the ambition to become a professional race car driver from an early age.
He started his pursuit of his dream by racing in the lower formula car racing series in Japan. After gaining some experience in the Japanese lower formulae, he decided to take his career to the next level and made an attempt at Formula One.
This is the highest level of car racing, and Masami was able to make an impressive debut in the sport.
Although his Formula One career wasn’t particularly successful, Masami was able to use the knowledge and experience he gained from his races to eventually become one of the most successful drivers in Japanese lower formulae.
24. Keiichi Tsuchiya
Keiichi Tsuchiya is a highly talented Japanese professional race car driver. He is best known by the nickname “Drift King” due to his unique and innovative style of driving.
He created a new technique of drifting in non-drifting racing events, which he used to gain an edge over his opponents. This technique became widely popularized by Tsuchiya, leading to the mainstream acceptance of drifting as a motorsport.
Tsuchiya’s approach to racing was non-traditional, as he was more focused on the technical aspects of driving, rather than simply following the traditional racing lines.
He was well-known as a driver who was constantly pushing the boundaries of what was possible, and his revolutionary style of driving allowed him to gain an edge in various races.
His drifting technique became synonymous with his name, and as a result, his name is widely associated with the sport of drifting. Tsuchiya’s influence on the sport of drifting has been profound, and he is credited with popularizing drifting as a motorsport.
His nontraditional approach to racing has helped to shape the sport, and many of the techniques and approaches that are used in drifting today can be traced back to his unique style of driving.
Furthermore, his influence can be seen in the popularity of drifting as a motorsport, with drifting events now being held around the world. Overall, Keiichi Tsuchiya is a legendary race car driver who has had a major impact on the sport of drifting.
His nontraditional use of drifting in non-drifting racing events, and his role in popularizing drifting as a motorsport, have made him an icon in the racing world..
25. Manabu Orido
Manabu “MAX” Orido is a Japanese professional racing driver who currently competes in three distinct racing series. He is part of Team apr Racing in the Super GT series, where he drives a Toyota GR86 GT300.
He also competes in the Super Taikyu series, driving an Aston Martin Vantage GT8R, and in the GT World Challenge Asia series, driving a BMW M4 GT4. Manabu “MAX” Orido is a highly experienced racer who has been driving professionally for many years.
His success in the Super GT series has been impressive, as he has achieved several podium finishes in the past few seasons. In the Super Taikyu series, he is driving an Aston Martin Vantage GT8R, a powerful and agile vehicle that is well-suited to the series.
Finally, in the GT World Challenge Asia series, he is behind the wheel of a BMW M4 GT4, a car that has been proven to be highly competitive in this series. Manabu “MAX” Orido has shown himself to be a talented and versatile driver, capable of competing in multiple series.
His commitment to excellence has enabled him to reach the top of the sport, and he is sure to continue to be a force to be reckoned with for many years to come.
26. Satoshi Motoyama
Satoshi Motoyama is a highly-respected Japanese professional racing driver and team manager. He has been a top competitor in two of Japan’s most prestigious racing series: the Super GT Series and the Formula Nippon Championship.
Motoyama first rose to prominence in the Super GT Series, formerly known as the All-Japan Grand Touring Car Championship. He was a factory driver for Nissan, and his stellar racing performances helped to establish him as a household name in Japan.
Motoyama has also competed in the Formula Nippon Championship, Japan’s premier open-wheel racing series.
His experience in the Formula Nippon Championship helped him to develop an even more impressive set of skills, as he had to adjust to the different demands posed by open-wheel racing. Motoyama’s success in both series has made him a highly sought-after driver and team manager.
His ability to adjust to different racing conditions and his long track record of success make him one of the most respected figures in Japanese professional racing.
27. Masanori Sekiya
Masanori Sekiya is a retired Japanese racing car driver who is most famous for being the first Japanese driver to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995.
This iconic race is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious endurance races, where drivers and teams compete to see who can finish the most laps in 24 hours. Before becoming a world-renown driver, Sekiya began his career in single-seaters.
He participated in the Japanese Formula 3000 Championship and Formula Nippon, from 1987 to 1993, where he raced for the Leyton House team.
These single-seater events helped to build his skill and reputation as a racer, eventually leading him to become the first Japanese driver to ever win the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Since his retirement in 1995, Sekiya has continued to share his passion for racing, often assisting drivers and teams with coaching and mentoring.
He has also worked with various organizations to help promote the sport in Japan, and regularly takes part in historic racing events. His impressive career and accomplishments have earned him the respect and admiration of racers and fans both in Japan and around the world.
28. Kohei Hirate
Kohei Hirate is a Japanese race car driver who has achieved tremendous success in his career. He has gained national and international recognition as one of the finest drivers in the world.
Hirate has won the Super GT series, a prestigious racing championship in Japan, on two occasions. This is a remarkable accomplishment, demonstrating Hirate’s skill and determination.
His success in the Super GT series has been built on an impressive record of success in a wide variety of other racing series.
Hirate has won a number of other championships in Japan, including the All-Japan Formula Three Championship, the All-Japan Formula Four Championship, and the GT300 Championship. He also competed in the FIA GT1 World Championship and the Super Taikyu Endurance race.
He has also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Hirate’s accomplishments have earned him admiration and respect from fans and peers alike. His success in the Super GT series has been a major factor in its growing popularity.
His achievements have earned him the honor of being named the “King of Super GT” by fans and racers alike. Kohei Hirate is an inspiration to aspiring race car drivers and a model of excellence for those who love the sport of racing.
His skill and determination have helped him achieve tremendous success in his career, and he is a testament to the possibility of achieving greatness through hard work and dedication.
29. Akira Iida
Akira Iida is a professional racing driver from Japan. He is currently competing in the Super GT series in the GT300 class, with the team LM Corsa, which is part of Toyota Motorsport’s GAZOO Racing arm.
Iida has a great amount of experience in the field, having won the 2002 All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship GT500 class with Esso Toyota Team LeMans, driving alongside Juichi Wakisaka.
His success in this championship speaks volumes about his skills and determination in the racing world. Iida has been able to maintain a competitive edge in the sport for many years, and his success in the Super GT series is testament to this.
He is a great role model for aspiring racers all over the world.
30. Kosuke Matsuura
Kosuke Matsuura is a highly accomplished and experienced race car driver from Japan. He is currently competing in the Super GT series and has a strong track record in this competitive motorsport.
Before this, Matsuura gained major success in the Formula Nippon series, as well as the IRL IndyCar Series, further cementing his reputation as one of the top drivers from Japan.
His skill and talent has earned him the respect of many in the racing community, and he is widely regarded as one of the best drivers in the world.
With a long and successful career ahead of him, Matsuura looks set to continue to be a force in the world of motorsport for the foreseeable future.
31. Seiji Ara
Seiji Ara is a highly accomplished Japanese race car driver. He is best known for his win at the prestigious 24-hour Le Mans race in 2004, in which he drove an Audi R8.
This was a major accomplishment, and it was followed by a successful year in the Le Mans Endurance Series and Japanese GT Championship. Before his big win at Le Mans, Ara had been making a name for himself in the world of motorsports.
He had competed in Formula Nippon, Japanese Formula 3, and the Barber Dodge Pro Series.
His commitment to excellence and drive to succeed earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans. Today, Seiji Ara is still involved in racing, and his accomplishments have made him a household name in Japan and beyond.
He continues to set a high standard for other drivers in the world of motorsports and is an inspiration to many.
32. Hayanari Shimoda
Hayanari Shimoda is a Japanese race car driver from Tokyo. He began his racing career in 1997 when he entered the world of karting. From there, he moved up to competing in Italian Formula Renault in 2001.
This was a major move for Shimoda, as the Italian Formula Renault is widely considered one of the top tiers in motorsports. It is a professional racing series that features some of the fastest and most talented drivers from around the world.
Through his hard work and dedication to the sport, Shimoda has proven himself to be an outstanding racer, often placing in the top rankings. His success in the Italian Formula Renault series has solidified his place as one of the best drivers in the world.
33. Hideki Mutoh
Hideki Mutoh is a professional race car driver from Tokyo, Japan. He is currently competing in Super GT, a top-level national sports car championship series held in Japan. Mutoh began racing at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his skill.
He has won numerous races throughout his career, including the All-Japan Formula 3 Championship in 2005 and the Suzuka 1000km in 2011. He is now recognized as one of the top drivers in Japan and is a regular podium finisher in Super GT.
He is also a member of the Honda racing team, having been with the team since 2009. Mutoh continues to be a prominent figure in the racing community and is a popular driver amongst fans.
34. Giuliano Alesi
Giuliano Ryu Alesi is a French racing driver with a unique background. He is the son of Kumiko Goto, a former Japanese actress, and Jean Alesi, a well-known former Formula One driver.
This combination of parents has allowed Giuliano to grow up surrounded by both the entertainment and motorsport worlds, bringing him an understanding of both professions.
His father’s experience has also given Giuliano access to an invaluable wealth of knowledge about Formula One racing, something he has certainly taken advantage of.
Giuliano is now a rising star in motorsport, having won numerous junior championships and already appearing in the Formula Three and Formula Regional European Championship series. He is sure to be a name to watch in the future of racing and is sure to make his parents proud.
35. Nirei Fukuzumi
Nirei Fukuzumi is a professional Japanese racing driver. He has been competing in the Japanese Super Formula Championship since 2018. He currently races for Drago Corse, a racing team based in Japan.
Fukuzumi made his Super Formula debut in 2018 and has had a successful career since then. He has achieved several podium finishes and has had several top five placings in the championship.
He is considered one of the most talented drivers in Japan and is tipped to be a future star of the sport. Fukuzumi is a very popular driver in Japan and is well-known for his aggressive driving style.
He is also known for his consistent and reliable driving, which makes him a valuable asset to any racing team.
36. Kazuki Hiramine
Kazuki Hiramine is a professional racing driver from Japan who is currently competing in the Super GT Series, a prominent racing series in Japan. He is part of the Nissan factory team, Team Impul, and has achieved great success in the series.
In 2022, he and his co-driver Bertrand Baguette won the GT500 Championship, the highest level of Super GT racing.
This was an impressive feat, showing the skill and dedication of both drivers. Hiramine has been racing since an early age, starting out in go-karts and eventually moving up to professional racing.
His impressive driving skills have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career, including the GT500 Championship in 2022.
He has become one of the top drivers in the Super GT Series and is known for his skill and determination. Hiramine continues to compete in the Super GT Series and has the potential to achieve even more success in the future.
He is an inspiring figure in the racing world, and his accomplishments serve as an example to aspiring racers everywhere.
37. Toshiki Oyu
Toshiki Oyu is a professional racing driver from Japan. He is currently competing in two of the most prestigious auto racing competitions in the country, namely, Super GT and Super Formula.
Oyu is part of the Team Mugen team in Super GT, and part of the TCS Nakajima Racing team in Super Formula. Super GT is a grand touring car racing series held in Japan, and Oyu has been a part of the series since 2018.
The series features several car classes, including GT300, GT500, and Super Taikyu. Team Mugen is one of the teams competing in the GT500 class. The team has won several championships since its inception in 1996. Super Formula is a single-seater motor racing series held in Japan.
It is one of the most competitive auto racing competitions in the country. Oyu is part of TCS Nakajima Racing, which is one of the leading teams in the series.
The team has won several championships since its inception in 1992. Toshiki Oyu is one of the most successful racing drivers in Japan. He is a highly skilled driver who has a lot of experience in the sport.
His commitment and dedication to the sport have enabled him to reach the top of the rankings in both Super GT and Super Formula..
38. Tetsu Ikuzawa
Tetsu Ikuzawa is a renowned name in the world of Japanese motorsport. He is widely regarded as one of the most successful and prolific drivers from the early years of Japan’s automobile racing history.
Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Ikuzawa had a passion for motorsport from a young age.
He quickly rose to fame in the Japanese racing scene, becoming one of the most successful drivers in the country. In addition to his success as a driver, Ikuzawa also made a name for himself in the business world.
After retiring from driving, he became a team executive in the Japanese racing circuit. Here, he was instrumental in the development of young drivers, working hard to ensure that they had the best possible chances of success.
He was also involved in motorsport outside of Japan, working with other teams and drivers in the international racing scene. Ikuzawa’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed.
He has been awarded several honors and titles for his work in the motorsport industry, including the Japan Motor Sports Association’s Grand Prize and the Japan Automobile Racing Association’s Order of Merit.
His legacy in the world of Japanese motorsport will continue to live on for many years to come.
39. Keiji Matsumoto
Keiji Matsumoto was a renowned Japanese racing driver who excelled in the top level of Japanese Formula racing, also known as Super Formula, from 1976 to 1992.
During his career, he became the champion of the Japanese Formula 2 in 1979 and came in second place in the 1982 and 1985 championships, behind Satoru Nakajima, who would later become a Formula 1 driver.
Matsumoto began his career in 1976, and his first major accomplishment was his championship win in the Japanese Formula 2 in 1979. This was followed by two runner-up finishes in 1982 and 1985 to Satoru Nakajima.
His impressive results earned him a spot in the top level of Japanese Formula racing, now known as Super Formula. During his time as a Super Formula driver, Matsumoto was able to secure a couple of third-place finishes in the championship.
He also raced in the All-Japan Sports Prototype Championship, where he achieved two podium finishes. He retired from racing in 1992 and is still remembered as one of the most successful Japanese racers of all time.
40. Tomoki Nojiri
Tomoki Nojiri is an accomplished racing driver from Japan, who is currently employed by the Honda Motor Company. He is highly successful in the GT500 class of the Autobacs Super GT Series and has won the Super Formula Championship in both 2021 and 2022.
Nojiri is a respected and experienced driver, who has shown himself to be a force to be reckoned with on the race track. Nojiri began his career in the GT500 class of the Autobacs Super GT Series in 2020 and has since become one of the most successful drivers in the series.
He has won multiple races and has finished in the top three in the standings for the past two seasons.
This success has led to him being crowned the 2021 and 2022 series champion. In addition to his success in the GT500 class of the Autobacs Super GT Series, Nojiri has also found success in the Super Formula Championship.
He has won the championship in both 2021 and 2022, and is well on his way to claiming a third consecutive title.
His impressive record in the series has cemented his place as one of the greatest racing drivers in Japan. Nojiri’s success has been largely attributed to his skill and commitment to the sport.
He is a dedicated and talented driver who puts in the hard work and effort to make sure he is always at the top of his game. His success in the GT500 class of the Autobacs Super GT Series and the Super Formula Championship are a testament to this dedication and hard work.
41. Katsumasa Chiyo
Katsumasa Chiyo is a renowned Japanese factory racing driver. He is currently competing in the Autobacs Super GT Series as a factory driver for Nissan, a Japanese car manufacturer.
Chiyo is a graduate of the Nissan Driver Development Program; a program that prepares drivers for a successful career in racing. His achievements include winning the Bathurst 12 Hour race and the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup.
His success is a testament to the quality of the Nissan Driver Development Program and Chiyo’s hard work and dedication to racing. Chiyo is an inspiration to aspiring racers everywhere, showing that with the right training and commitment, success is achievable.
42. Ritomo Miyata
Ritomo Miyata is a professional racing driver from Japan who is actively competing in two premier motorsport series. He currently competes in the Super Formula series, driving for the Kuo Vantelin Team TOM’S, and the Super GT series, driving for the TGR Team WedsSport Bandoh.
Miyata has achieved impressive success in his racing career, having won the Japanese F4 championship twice and the 2020 Super Formula Lights championship. His performances in these championships have made him one of the most highly respected drivers in Japan.
43. Akihiko Nakaya
Akihiko Nakaya is a highly successful racing driver who has achieved a great deal of success in professional motorsport. His career has seen him compete in the Japanese Touring Car Championship and F3000, where he has achieved multiple victories and podium finishes.
He is also a regular presenter on the popular Japanese motoring show Best Motoring, which follows the world of motorsport and car culture.
Nakaya’s success in the sport has earned him a great deal of respect and admiration from fans and fellow drivers alike, and his presence on the show is a testament to his knowledge and enthusiasm for the world of motorsport.
44. Ukyo Sasahara
Ukyo Sasahara is a professional racing driver from Japan. He began his career in karting at the age of nine and quickly gained a reputation for being one of the most competitive drivers.
He went on to compete in the Formula 3 Euro Series in 2012 and the Formula Renault 3.5 Series in 2013, where he achieved several podium finishes and a win. He then moved up to the GP2 Series in 2014, where he earned his first pole position and victory.
In 2016, Sasahara joined the Super Formula Championship and finished the season in 4th place overall. Sasahara is currently competing in the Super GT Series, where he has become one of the most successful Japanese drivers of his generation.
He has achieved several podium finishes and a win in the series and is considered to be one of the best drivers in the world.
45. Sho Tsuboi
Sho Tsuboi is a professional Japanese racing driver who competes in the top-level motorsport championships in Japan. He currently competes in the GT500 class of the Super GT Series for TGR Team au TOM’s, where he is the current 2021 series champion.
This is a remarkable achievement, considering that the Super GT Series is one of the most competitive championships in Japan, featuring some of the best drivers in the world. Additionally, Tsuboi also competes in the Super Formula Championship for P.mu Cerumo/INGING.
This championship is the highest level of single-seat open-wheel racing in Japan, with some of the world’s most advanced and powerful cars.
Tsuboi has been able to establish himself as a top-level driver in both championships, and his success shows that he is one of the best drivers in Japan.
46. Hitoshi Ogawa
Hitoshi Ogawa was a Japanese racing car driver who earned fame and recognition in the sporting world for his achievements. He was born in Tokyo in 1964 and began his racing career at the young age of 17.
His success in the racing world began with his first win at the All Japan Formula Three Championship in 1984.
From then on, he continued to compete in various races and was often seen driving his Honda powered Mugen-Honda F3 chassis. In the 1990s, Hitoshi Ogawa shifted his focus to the Super GT Series, where he won the overall championship in 1999.
He also raced in the 24 Hours Nürburgring in Germany, where he earned a podium finish in the year 2000.
Additionally, he also participated in other racing series, such as the Japanese Touring Car Championship, the All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship, and the International Formula 3000 Championship. Hitoshi Ogawa was an incredibly skilled racing driver, known for his strong technical knowledge, which allowed him to excel in any race.
He was well respected by his fellow drivers, who admired his determination and commitment to the sport. Hitoshi Ogawa tragically died in a crash in 2003 while competing in the Super GT.
Despite his untimely death, he will always be remembered as one of the most talented and successful Japanese racing drivers. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and the racing community as a whole.
47. Toru Takahashi
Toru Takahashi was a renowned Japanese race car driver. He was born in Tokyo, Japan, and began racing in the late 1970s. He was an incredible driver who quickly became one of the top drivers in the world.
Takahashi won many championships throughout his career, including the Japanese Rally Championship, the All Japan Formula 3000 Championship, and the Japanese Formula 3 Championship.
He even won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1994. Takahashi was known for his incredible technique and precision. He was an incredibly skilled driver who could perform difficult maneuvers with ease.
He was also known for his incredible ability to stay focused during races, which was a key factor in his success.
He was highly respected in the racing community for his skill and determination. Takahashi was also known for his great sense of humor and his ability to stay calm in difficult situations. He was admired by many for his positive attitude and dedication to the sport.
He was an inspiration to many aspiring race car drivers and was an important figure in the racing community. Toru Takahashi’s legacy is one of greatness and respect. He was an incredibly talented driver who was highly respected for his skill and dedication to the sport.
His accomplishments and contributions to the world of racing will be remembered for years to come.
Conclusion
Japan has some of the best auto racing players in the world. The drivers have an incredible amount of skill and experience, and they are always pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
With the right training and dedication, these auto racing players can continue to be at the top of their game. Japan is a great place to look for some of the best auto racing players in the world.
