A horse-girl racing game is taking over Suzuka’s famous F1 corner
One of Formula 1‘s most famous corners is getting an unexpected new name. Japanese game developer Cygames has announced that Suzuka Circuit‘s high-speed 130R will become Umamusume 130R as part of a partnership between Umamusume: Pretty Derby and the 2027 Japanese Grand Prix.
The new name takes effect on November 20, 2026 and will remain in place for approximately one year.
The agreement also makes Umamusume the first founding partner in the Japanese Grand Prix’s history. The designation represents the event’s highest partnership tier, with Cygames supporting fan activities and promotional projects during the race weekend.
Fórmula 1 x Umamusume se está haciendo canon! https://t.co/IlGYvXrqte
— Pedro (@DeLaLuz22) November 12, 2026
The 2027 Japanese Grand Prix takes place from April 9 to 11 as the fourth round of the Formula 1 season.
Why is Umamusume sponsoring Formula 1?
For anyone unfamiliar with the franchise, Umamusume: Pretty Derby is a Japanese game about anime-style horse girls inspired by real racehorses.
Players take on the role of a trainer, helping their characters develop their abilities and compete in races. The franchise has expanded into anime, manga and other entertainment formats.
Cygames says the partnership reflects similarities between the game and Formula 1, particularly the importance of teamwork, preparation and the pursuit of victory.
The deal centres on 130R, a sweeping left-hand corner near the end of the Suzuka lap where F1 drivers can carry tremendous speed. Named after its original 130-metre radius, it is one of the circuit’s most recognisable sections.
The naming-rights agreement will begin during the November 21–22 Japanese Super Formula Championship event, when Umamusume promotional displays will appear around the corner.
However, those displays will not be present at 130R during the 2027 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, despite the temporary name remaining in effect.
Instead, Cygames plans to operate a special Umamusume booth in Suzuka’s GP Square Fanzone, alongside other activities that have yet to be announced.
The race weekend will also feature Japan’s first Formula 1 Sprint, adding a shorter competitive race on Saturday before Sunday’s Grand Prix.
Tickets for the event go on sale on November 15 at 11 a.m. Japan time through Suzuka Circuit’s official ticketing website.
