On April 28, 2025, the excitement at the Kawaguchi Auto Race All-Star event reached a fever pitch as local ace Kyosuke Kurokawa, 26, secured a spot in the finals after a dominant performance in the semi-finals. Kurokawa, representing Kawaguchi, showcased his exceptional skills by finishing first in his semi-final race, demonstrating the top-notch dash that has made him a standout competitor.
"I was glad to reach the front before the finish line. Compared to my best moments, the straightaway felt a bit lacking. If I can make a few more adjustments, I’ll be even better," Kurokawa remarked, hinting at ongoing tweaks to his machine. This year marks a crucial turning point for him, as he missed the chance to compete in the Japan Championship due to a foul in last year’s final. "This is my chance to prove myself, and I’m going to do my best to win the championship," he added, eyeing his second title since the All Japan Championship last year.
Meanwhile, Yuichiro Suzuki, 30, from Hamamatsu, also made headlines by finishing second in the 11R semi-final on a wet track, qualifying for the championship race for an impressive sixth consecutive year. Despite facing challenges with a muffler that didn’t suit him, Suzuki managed to secure his place in the finals. "I struggled with the muffler I drew in the lottery, which affected my performance on the good track conditions where I finished 3rd, 4th, and 3rd in previous races. But I’m not giving up," he stated, determined to claim his fifth V championship and 16th SG title. Suzuki plans to replace the case on his machine, aiming to enhance his performance in the finals.
Local racing expert Masato Nakamura also made a significant impact on the event. Having advanced to the semi-finals with consistent finishes of 3rd, 2nd, 3rd, and 1st, Nakamura is back in form after recovering from an injury sustained in a crash at the All Japan Selection SG in February 2025. This marks his second event since returning to the track. "Winning the 9R race on the fourth day felt great. I’m satisfied with making it to the semi-finals," Nakamura expressed, a smile of determination on his face. He noted that racing at night for the first time was a different experience compared to daytime racing, but he was pleased with his performance. "I have a good position in the semi-finals, and if I can break through to the front, I have a solid chance to advance to the SG Best 8, something I haven’t done since last year's championship," he added.
The atmosphere at Kawaguchi is electric, with fans eagerly anticipating the finals. Kurokawa, Suzuki, and Nakamura are all vying for glory, each with their unique challenges and aspirations. Kurokawa aims to redeem himself after last year's disappointment, while Suzuki seeks to extend his legacy with yet another championship title. Nakamura, on the other hand, is determined to prove that he is back and better than ever.
As the finals approach, the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. Fans are placing their bets, with combinations like 3-4=1 and 3-4=6 being popular among those looking to capitalize on the thrilling action. With each racer bringing their A-game, it’s anyone’s guess who will emerge victorious in this year’s All-Star Auto Race.
The Kawaguchi Auto Race All-Star event not only showcases the talents of these skilled racers but also highlights the resilience and determination that define the sport. Whether it’s Kurokawa’s quest for redemption, Suzuki’s pursuit of greatness, or Nakamura’s comeback story, each competitor has a unique narrative that adds to the rich tapestry of this exhilarating event.
As the sun sets and the lights illuminate the track, anticipation builds for what promises to be a memorable final showdown. Fans are on the edge of their seats, ready to witness the culmination of hard work, dedication, and passion for auto racing. Who will claim the title and etch their name into the history of the Kawaguchi Auto Race? Only time will tell as the racers prepare for the ultimate test of speed and skill.
