Carlos Sainz Jr admitted he was impressed by the Suzuka circuit during his first appearance there back in 2015, and is eager to return this year for his second attack on the Japanese Grand Prix.
The Scuderia Toro Rosso driver finished tenth last season, and the Spaniard says it reminds him of a narrow English circuit, and that coupled with the amazing support the racing gets in Japan, puts the circuit amongst his favourites on the Formula 1 calendar.
“I really like Japan!” said Sainz. “The first thing that comes to my mind are the amazing fans there… I enjoy driving into the track every morning and seeing them all waiting to cheer us on. They are always so fun and respectful at the same time.
“In my list of ‘top tracks’ I think it’s probably up there with Spa and Silverstone. It’s an amazing layout.
“Last year was my rookie year and when I discovered the track and the fact that it goes up and down hill so much, I was impressed. It reminds me of a narrow English track, those where the grass is always very close to you and it’s one of the most challenging. I think that Sector 1 is top level!”