Fuji International Speedway was known for Niki Lauda, who left his car because the thought the rainy track was too dangerous in 1976.
In 2005 the Fuji Speedway was renovated, the turns defused and the track became competitive again. The turns were enlarged, the runoff area was asphalted, and the track provided with safe curbs. The most important renewal was the building of a slower and tight part in front of the start-finish-line. Besides additional security new overtake possibilities were created and the speed in the straight was eased because of the security.