Lexus Takes 1-2 Super GT Finish in Round 5 at Fuji

Lexus LC500 teams successfully defend their home turf despite heated competition and a number of setbacks.

Fuji International Speedway is about as close as it gets to a “home” track for Lexus. Thus, the brand’s lineup of LC500 drivers knew that they needed to show up for Super GT‘s Round 5 at the legendary track. And suffice to say, they did that and more. For starters, the au TOM’s LC500 No.36, piloted by Kazuki Nakajima and Yuhi Sekiguchi, achieved victory in the GT500 class for the first time this season. That win also marked the second straight victory for Lexus.

Even better, the KeePer TOM’S LC500 No.1, driven by Ryo Hirakawa and Nick Cassidy, was right behind them in second place. And for some, the 1-2 finish came as a sigh of relief. “This race was a race we must win, and it meant the season will end for us if we didn’t,” admitted Nakajima. “So we are relieved for this victory. Our team didn’t have luck this season, especially Yuhi didn’t have it. So I am happy for the win, which is the first time after we became the same team.”

“The previous race at Thailand was regretful, so I am happy with the victory,” added Sekiguchi” When I started the last stint, we were not in position one yet. But we decided to go with the soft tire, so we didn’t give up for it. This is the first podium and first victory for me after transferring to this team. So I am relieved for the result.”

The competition proved intense and huge obstacles threatened the KeePer TOM’s team.  But they were able to overcome it all with an impressive result.

“We had a restrictor and had massive weight. So it’s a good success we didn’t get a lap behind,” said Cassidy. “Our highest speed proved inferior compared to the rivals. But we were able to race the long 800km, with finishing by a narrow margin to No.36. So I think we did a good job.”

All in all, not a bad day. And perhaps more importantly, the Lexus team can hang its hat on the fact that it successfully defended its home turf!

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.