Satoru-Nakajima

1.

Satoru Nakajima
Japan's Trailblazer in Formula One
The man who shattered barriers and proved Japanese drivers belonged on motorsport's greatest
stage.

2.

From Okazaki Farm to the
World Stage
Humble Beginnings
Racing Ascendancy
Born 23 February 1953 in Okazaki,
He ignited his racing career at
Aichi, into a farming family,
Suzuka Circuit in 1973, immediately
Nakajima discovered his passion
dominating the rookie series.
for driving in unconventional ways.
Between 1981 and 1986, Nakajima
As a teenager, he secretly learnt to
achieved the extraordinary—five
drive from his brother in the family
championships in Japanese
garden, defying expectations that
Formula Two, powered by Honda
he would follow a traditional
engines that would later define his
agricultural path.
F1 career. His dominance was
unmistakable.

3.

Breaking Barriers
First Full-Time Japanese F1 Driver
Historic Debut
Points Secured
Peak Performances
Made Formula One debut in 1987 at age 34 with
Scored first F1 points with 6th place at the San
Achieved 4th place finishes at the 1987 British GP
Lotus, partnering legendary Ayrton Senna—a pairing
Marino GP, his second race ever, proving he
and 1989 Australian GP, where he also claimed the
that would define his career.
belonged among the world's elite.
fastest lap—showcasing raw speed and
determination.
Resilience Personified: Qualified 5th at the 1989 Japanese GP despite personal tragedy, earning widespread respect for his unwavering commitment to racing.

4.

Ayrton Senna & Nakajima
A Unique Partnership
Mentor & Rival
Knowledge Exchange
Senna, destined to become a world
Senna provided personal advice on race
champion, became both Nakajima's
tactics, car setup, and navigating life in
mentor and his respectful rival. The
foreign countries. Meanwhile,
legendary Brazilian recognised the
Nakajima's expertise with Honda
Japanese driver's determination and
engines helped Senna master new
offered generous guidance.
power units.
Cultural Bridge
Their relationship symbolised
something profound: a bridge between
Japanese motorsport tradition and
global F1 excellence. Two drivers from
different worlds, united by mutual
respect and shared ambition.

5.

Legacy Beyond the Track
Nakajima Racing
Family Legacy
Founded his own team in 1991, nurturing
Sons Kazuki and Daisuke followed in his
Japanese talent through Super Formula
footsteps; Kazuki raced in Formula One and
and Super GT championships.
True Champion
More than statistics and podiums,
Nakajima represents the triumph of
the human spirit against all odds.
Enduring Impact
triumphed at Le Mans.
Global Ambassador
Advocates for Japanese drivers'
international success, emphasising
skill and domestic racing strength
worldwide.
Inspiration
A pioneer who proved that determination,
Opened the door for Japan's motorsport
skill, and heart transcend nationality and
presence on the world stage, inspiring
age—forever changing racing's landscape.
generations to pursue excellence.