Collaboration Between the Japan Sumo Association and the FORMULA 1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX

On Saturday, March 28, Ozeki Kotozakura is scheduled to appear on the official stage

Suzuka Circuit, as the stage for the world’s premier motor racing series, F1, is working to enhance the value of Japan and the Japanese Grand Prix, and to attract new fans by promoting Japanese culture, beauty, and motorsports culture. As part of this effort, a collaboration with the Japan Sumo Association, a public interest incorporated foundation, has been decided.

Sumo has a long history and is gaining worldwide popularity, including a successful performance in London, UK, in 2025 for the first time in 34 years. Additionally, the competitive structure where rikishi (sumo wrestlers) train rigorously every day and only a limited few can step onto the dohyo (sumo ring) in official tournaments parallels the world of F1, where only the chosen drivers compete on the grand stage after fierce battles. There are many resonating aspects in the spirit of both, and through this collaboration, we aim to convey uniquely Japanese values to the world while further enhancing the brand of the FORMULA 1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX.

During the FORMULA 1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX event period, on Saturday, March 28, when the qualifying takes place, Ozeki Kotosakura is scheduled to appear on the official stage. Additionally, on Thursday, March 26, the day before the event, several sumo wrestlers are expected to participate in the "Community Experience Programme," an exchange project involving F1, local children, and Japanese culture.