Typhoon misses Suzuka

The Formula One fans can relax: Despite the predictions of weather forecasters, typhoon ‘No 22’ has spared the ‘Suzuka International Racing Course’. The Japanese Grand Prix will get underway, as scheduled, on Sunday at 14:30hrs local time (06:30hrs BST). Fortunately, the chaos and destruction many had feared didn’t happen.

The tropical storm was expected to hit the Suzuka region at about 15:00hrs local time (07:00hrs BST) on Saturday, but changed its direction at the last moment, by-passing the circuit. The torrential rain ceased and occasionally you could even see the sun.

On its way to Japan, No 22 reached wind speeds up to 300km/h, and even after reaching the mainland its speed was around 220km/h. But while some parts of Japan have been damaged, Formula One - at least - could announce: ‘All clear!’

Now, the postponed back-to-back qualifying sessions will take place as planned on Sunday from 09:00hrs local time (01:00hrs BST), while the lights will go out for the start of the race on 14:30hrs local time. The BMW WilliamsF1 Team has already left its shelter. The conning bridge at the pit-wall has been re-erected and cars and equipment have been brought back to their regular positions.