Typically in Japan, the fans flocked to the Fuji Speedway for the first day of running for the fifth round of the 2014 FIA World Endurance Championship.
With many flags, banners and other messages for favourite drivers and teams, the Japanese public always show their affection and appreciation for the competitors at Fuji.
Staying late into the evening, many of the fans waited behind the pits to meet their heroes. Two of them were Tokyo residents Shanika Shiida and Takahiro Mimori, who travelled to the circuit for the weekend and left everyone in no doubt who they were supporting.
“We are big Ferrari fans but especially Gimmi Bruni and Toni Vilander from AF Corse,” said Mr Mimori. “We made our special pit board and flags for them. We will cheer them all weekend and we hope they win again after a very good season in 2014.”
Other banners in the main grandstand showed support for Nick Heidfeld, Rebellion Racing, Alex Wurz, Mark Webber and of course many Toyota messages.
With pre-race ticket sales up 20% on last year, the atmosphere will be building nicely throughout Saturday as the 27 car grid make final preparations for the big race which begins at 11h00 local time tomorrow morning.
Sam Smith
