> Suzuka back on F1 calendar from 2009

apanese venue Suzuka will return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2009 in a race-share agreement with Fuji Speedway.

Suzuka, a favourite of drivers and fans alike, lost its right to host the Japanese Grand Prix when the Toyota-owned Fuji venue was given a five-year contract to run the event from 2007.

But following a deal brokered by F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone with Fuji Speedway president Hiroaki Kato, Fuji announced on Saturday that the race will alternate between Suzuka and Fuji from 2009 onwards.

"We have concluded an agreement on the alteration of the Formula 1 Japanese Grand prix between Fuji Speedway and Suzuka Circuit, to ensure the progress and success of keeping Formula 1 in Japan over the long term," said Ecclestone.

"I appreciate that Fuji Speedway accepted this and am very happy that Fuji Speedway and Suzuka Circuit made this possible.

"It also makes me very pleased that we will retain Suzuka as it had supported Formula 1 for 20 years and the large amount of fans."

In a statement, the Fuji Speedway organisation added that the new agreement was the best possible solution for Japanese motorsport.

"The process started with FOA suggesting to Fuji Speedway that hosting the
Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji Speedway in the east of Japan and Suzuka Circuit in the
west of Japan every alternating year would be a good strategy not only welcomed by
Japanese fans, but fans all over the world as well," read the statement.

Source: itv-f1