Typhoon could affect Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit

The powerful typhoon that is heading for Japan's main island this weekend could impact on the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix.

Typhoon Hagibis is expected to hit western and eastern Japan between Saturday and Sunday, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. It has urged people to take precautions with the storm approaching.

"The FIA, Formula 1, Suzuka Circuit and the Japanese Automobile Federation are closely monitoring Typhoon Hagibis and its potential impact on the 2019 FIA Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix," organizers said Thursday in a statement.

"Every effort is being made to minimize disruption to the Formula 1 timetable, however the safety of the fans, competitors and everyone at the Suzuka Circuit remains the top priority."

The Japanese Grand Prix weekend has been affected by extreme weather before, most recently in 2014 when heavy rain fell during the race. Meanwhile, in 2004 and in 2010, qualifying was postponed and held on Sunday morning because of bad weather.

The Pacific side of western and eastern Japan may see torrential rains from Friday until the typhoon passes, and the agency warned of floods caused by the high waves and tides.

Monday is also a national holiday in Japan meaning Sunday's race could potentially be pushed back a day.

Practice for the Japanese GP is scheduled for Friday with qualifying set for Saturday.

Hamilton aiming for win

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton knows a win at this weekend's typhoon-threatened Japanese Grand Prix will go a long way in sealing a sixth Formula One championship.

Hamilton has a commanding 73point lead over teammate Valtteri Bottas with five races left. Given Hamilton's success at the 5.807kilometer (3.608-mile) Suzuka circuit, the odds are clearly in his favor.

Hamilton has won here in four of the last five races.

"The races are counting down but we are just trying to take things one race at a time, put one foot in front of the other and not stumble," said Hamilton, who is coming off a win in Russia. "When you have a battle like this, you're working flat out, turning over every stone and questioning every little thing you can do better."

If Hamilton is able to win this weekend, he will equal Michael Schumacher's record for the highest number of wins at the Japanese GP with six. Hamilton won with McLaren in 2007 and with Mercedes in 2014, 2015, 2017 and last year.

Meanwhile, Japan's weather agency has warned that Typhoon Hagibis is expected to make landfall on Japan's main island over the weekend with Suzuka potentially taking a direct hit.

Current forecasts suggest Hagibis will reach Japan's shores on Saturday, when final practice and qualifying are due to take place.