Famous Japanese Race Car Drivers May 2026

These drivers established Japan's reputation in the highest tiers of open-wheel racing.

: In 1995, Sekiya made history as the first Japanese driver to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans overall, driving a McLaren F1 GTR . Famous Japanese Race Car Drivers

: Often cited as Japan's premier racing pioneer, he became the first Japanese driver to participate in a full Formula 1 season in 1987 as Ayrton Senna’s teammate at Lotus . These drivers established Japan's reputation in the highest

: Known as the "Fastest Man in Japan," Hoshino chose to dominate the domestic scene, winning multiple Japanese F3000 and Formula Nippon titles . He briefly showcased his talent in F1 during the 1976 Japanese Grand Prix , running as high as third before tire issues . Famous Japanese Race Car Drivers