Learn about the five SG races in Japanese Auto Race, the highest level of competition. Discover the biggest championships, prize money, and why these races are so prestigious.
What is an SG Race?
SG stands for Special Grade Race, the highest level of competition in Japanese Auto Race.
Only five SG races are held each year, making them extremely prestigious events. Winning an SG title brings great honor and recognition to a racer.
In normal races, competitors run 6 laps (3,100 meters).
However, SG races feature longer and more demanding formats:
Semi-finals: 8 laps (4,100 meters)
Final: 10 laps (5,100 meters)
Because of the longer distance and higher level of competition, SG races are considered the ultimate test of speed, endurance, and racing skill.
All Japan Selection Auto Race (February)
The All Japan Selection Auto Race is the first SG race of the year.
Only racers with excellent results from the previous year are selected to compete.
The venue changes every year among the five Auto Race tracks in Japan.
Held during the cold winter season, this race often becomes a high-speed battle, as engines perform well in low temperatures.
Prize for the winner: 14.2 million yen.
All Star Auto Race (April)
The All Star Auto Race is unique because the participants are selected by fan voting.
This means that even legendary veteran racers over 60 years old can be chosen if they remain popular with fans.
The race sometimes features handicap starts, which creates dramatic and unpredictable racing.
Prize for the winner: 14.2 million yen
Auto Race Grand Prix (August)
The Auto Race Grand Prix takes place every year during the Obon holiday season at
Isesaki Auto Race Track.
This event is famous for its night racing, creating a spectacular atmosphere.
Because it is held during the summer holidays, the venue is usually packed with spectators.
Temperatures can exceed 35°C during daytime races, so visitors should take care to avoid heatstroke while watching.
Prize for the winner: 14.2 million yen
Japan Championship Auto Race (November)
The Japan Championship Auto Race determines the best racer in Japan for that year.
Unlike some other races, this event features no handicap starts, meaning all racers begin from the same line.
This format creates intense battles where starting skill is extremely important, often giving an advantage to racers with explosive starts.
The venue changes every year.
Prize for the winner: 18.2 million yen
Super Star Championship (December 31)
The Super Star Championship is the final and biggest Auto Race event of the year.
It is held every year at
Kawaguchi Auto Race Track on New Year’s Eve (December 31).
Only 16 top racers from SG events during the year are selected.
The event consists of:
・4 days of trial races
・The top 8 racers advance to the final
With a massive 31 million yen prize, it is the highest-paying race in Auto Race.
As the final major public racing event of the year in Japan, the atmosphere is incredibly intense and the stadium becomes extremely crowded.
If you are visiting Japan during the New Year holiday, this race is one of the most exciting sporting events you can experience.
