Super Formula’s Inaugural “Friday Partner Day”
On July 18, renowned motor racing series Super Formula, organized by Japan Race Promotion (JRP), held its first “Friday Partner Day” at Fuji Speedway in Shizuoka Prefecture, coinciding with the series' 6th and 7th rounds. This unique event aimed to foster business exchanges within the automotive industry and facilitate job opportunities for students aspiring to enter the motorsport sector. The event was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, attracting over 300 attendees and featuring 28 participating companies.
The momentous occasion began with an inspiring speech referencing the words of Soichiro Honda, the founder of Honda Motor Co., whom famously defined racing as a “mobile laboratory.” JRP's president, Yoshihisa Ueno, encouraged the audience to join in building Japan's future through the exceptional platform provided by Super Formula, which showcases the pinnacle of human motorsport.
The day kicked off at 11 AM, coinciding with practice sessions where formula cars zoomed past at high speeds of up to 300 km/h. This dynamic atmosphere focused attendees' attention on the exhibiting companies, underscoring the intricate relationship between motorsport and technological innovation.
During the event's “Technical Session,” aimed at strengthening connections within the automotive industry, 13 companies showcased their latest innovations, enticing over 150 professionals and researchers to engage in technical exchanges at the forefront of motorsport. A highlight was a keynote speech delivered by esteemed entrepreneur Takafumi Horie, who spoke on the theme “Technologies in Motorsport Supporting Space Development.” His presentation captivated attendees as he detailed the potential of motorsport technologies in diverse applications beyond the racetrack.
Simultaneously, the “Job Hunting Session” was organized in collaboration with JRP partner FENNEL. Here, 15 prominent companies from the automotive and motorsport sectors, including leading teams and local circuits, participated in a career fair, offering insights and opportunities to over 150 students eager to pursue careers in these fields. Prior to the event's opening, queues formed outside as students eagerly awaited their chance to connect with industry leaders, taking advantage of the unique opportunity on a weekday.
In response to the success of this inaugural event, JRP reaffirmed its commitment to addressing social issues through motorsport. They aspire to continue serving society while drawing on the capabilities of Super Formula. JRP encourages companies and organizations interested in leveraging motorsport for societal solutions to reach out for collaboration.
In his opening remarks, Ueno reiterated the vital role motorsport plays in Japan’s auto industry evolution, emphasizing its status as a catalyst for innovation. As traditional automotive values shift amidst a transformative era, motorsport remains a critical platform for research and development. He expressed a desire to promote motorsport as a “running laboratory” that can contribute to sustainable practices and community engagement, paving the way for a new generation to thrive in the sector.
JRP’s mission aligns with comprehensive recognition of motorsport’s importance, and the organization invites everyone to join in cultivating unique experiences through events like the Friday Partner Day. The enthusiasm ignited by this special day signifies a promising future for motorsport and automotive innovation in Japan.
As participants left, the atmosphere was electrified not only by the thrill of the race but by the connections made and ideas exchanged, creating a fertile ground for future collaborations.
For More Information
Contact Japan Race Promotion:
- - Media: Uesaka, Ueda
- - Address: 3-28-5 Kanda-Ogawacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0052
- - Phone: 03-5801-6470
- - Email: media@superformula.net
To explore the future of mobility and the profound impact of motorsport, stay tuned for upcoming events and initiatives from the Super Formula team.