TIPS FOR FANS

How do I meet the racers?

You have limited opportunities to meet your favourite driver, take a photo, or ask for an autograph if you don't have a rare and expensive paddock pass, but it's not impossible, so don't give up. Here are our tips:

Fan events
Some drivers participate in the program within the race weekends. In particular, follow the social networks of the organiser, teams, drivers, and sponsors who support your favourite driver. There you will probably find out when and where you can catch your idol. One of the fan events which is set to be organised is the Pit Lane Walk. During this event, you can walk through the pit lane (ticket upgrade required) and ask the drivers for autographs as the autograph session should be part of the Pit Lane Walk.

In front of the circuit
Some drivers don't sleep at the track but in hotels. There are usually reserved parking spaces at the main entrance for the top parking pass holders, including the drivers. You can try to wait nearby, but be sure to get there early; drivers usually arrive at the circuit each day before the start of the race program to avoid heavy traffic.

How to behave when you meet a racer?

There are differences between racers and how they treat fans, so you should always follow a few basic guidelines. First, never delay racers if they want to go somewhere. They are under a lot of pressure and if they don't want to stop, don't demand it, or get angry with them. However, the best way to get the autograph is to take part in the Pit Lane Walk as mentioned.

If you want an autograph, your chances always increase when you want the driver to sign the official merchandise.

Want a photo with the driver? It's certainly not out of the question, but again - be considerate. If you want a selfie, always consider the driver's personal space. Not everyone likes being hugged by strangers, especially when there are dozens of them.

Unique Fuji Bus Safari

The Fuji Bus Safari is a unique and thrilling experience that allows fans to ride in a bus that drives around the circuit while the actual FIA WEC action is happening. The bus travels around the track at speeds of 50-60 km/h, and as it makes its way around, you’ll be able to witness the force of the racing cars zooming past you on the track! This gives you a perspective of the race like no other — you’re literally right next to the action as the cars whizz by at high speeds, mere meters away.

As the Bus Safari is a highly sought-after experience, tickets are usually allocated via a lottery system. To stay updated on when the lottery registration period opens, fans are encouraged to follow the official FIA WEC and Fuji Speedway social media accounts. The lottery typically opens 1-2 months before the event, so be sure to watch for announcements during that time.

How to enjoy the race as comfortably as possible?

When it comes to FIA WEC races, if you have an idea, thousands of people usually think the same way. So try to adjust your schedule differently to everyone else. Be anticipatory when eating or going to the toilet so you don't spend the best part of the day queuing.

Where to watch the race from?

In our grandstand guide, you will always find tips on where to go, and what you can see from a given grandstand. It's good to know what you are interested in beforehand. If you want to be as close to the track as possible, or if you are a keen amateur photographer and want the best shot, plan accordingly. One more thing to watch out for when planning your circuit moves is the distances on circuits can be pretty long. Some transitions between stands can take tens of minutes, especially if there are a lot of people on the circuit. Instead, try to keep the transitions as short as possible.