• Japanese Grand Prix

Suzuka confirms contract extension

ESPN Staff
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Suzuka will remain on the F1 calendar until 2018 © Sutton Images
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Suzuka has announced an extension of its race contract to 2018 after agreeing new terms with the sport's ringmaster Bernie Ecclestone.

The Suzuka circuit is owned by Honda, which is set to return to the sport in 2015 as engine supplier to McLaren, and Ecclestone is optimistic the race will continue to grow in popularity under its new five-year contract extension.

"It has been agreed that the Formula One Grand Prix will be hosted at Suzuka Circuit until 2018," he said. "It is also great to see Honda back in Formula One in 2015. I am sure that the Japanese Grand Prix will attract greater attention than ever."

Hiroshi Soda, president of the Mobilityland Corporation that runs Suzuka, thanked Ecclestone for agreeing on new terms that make the race possible.

"It is with great pleasure we have signed a formal contract after having had negotiations since we reached a basic agreement in March this year," Soda said. "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Bernie Ecclestone for showing us a great deal of understanding in the process. We will continue to work hard to ensure that Suzuka remains a venue loved by fans world over."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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