IFMAR 1:8 Onroad World Championship Stage 1 Report

Later this year the IFMAR 1:8 Onroad Nitro World Championship will return after a prolonged 4-year break with the Infinity International RC Speedway in Japan hosting the 23rd edition of the RC racing’s original World Championship.  The organisers of the event, lead by legendary race mechanic Masayuki Miura, has issued the Stage 1 Report and highlighted some important points for overseas drivers.  Drivers are reminded to check whether they require a visa to enter Japan from their home country.  With Covid, Japan was closed a long time and they have only opened up recently so there are still some rules around Covid and currently you need to be vaccinated to enter.  This situation could change so persons planning to travel for the October 27 to November 5 event should check the ‘Visit Japan‘ website for latest government rules.  Another important issue is the fuel. The organiser has two fuel brands available, Maxima and Nitrox from OS Engines.  For logistic reasons they need to know asap the choice of each driver.  Japan last hosted the 1:8 Onroad Worlds in 2013 when Tadahiko Sahashi took victory for Serpent.  Last year he joined Adrien Bertin as the only driver to do the nitro double when he won the 1:10 Onroad title in Bangkok with Infinity.  Winning the title in 2019 at the no longer existing Steel City RC Speedway, reigning 1:8 Champion & factory Mugen driver Shoki Takahata will be the first Japanese driver to try and defend his title on home soil.  Japanese drivers have won the title 3 times since inaugural Worlds was held in 1977.

Source: IFMAR [imfar.org]