MOTOR RACING/ Tokyo streets transformed into an F-1 racing circuit for a day

The roar of Formula 1 cars reverberated in the streets of Tokyo on March 9, giving residents a rare opportunity to witness the power and performance of the sleek racing machines. Two speedsters from the Red Bull Honda racing team were given access to closed-off public roads in the Meiji Jingu Gaien district of Shinjuku Ward to show off their stuff. Organziers said that about 10,000 gathered for the demonstration run by drivers Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Pierre Gasly of France. Gasly, who made an extra lap, said it felt good to drive fast in the streets of Tokyo in front of so many spectators. The Formula 1 season begins with the Australian Grand Prix on March 17 in Melbourne. The Japanese Grand Prix race is scheduled for October at the Suzuka Circuit in Mie Prefecture.