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How a 1998 crash at Fuji Speedway transformed motorsport safety

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 11:30 AM

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

How a 1998 crash at Fuji Speedway transformed motorsport safety

Summary

In 1998, a crash during the All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship at Fuji Speedway highlighted significant safety failures. Tetsuya Ota's Ferrari collided with two Porsches amid poor visibility, resulting in a fire that left him severely injured. The delayed response from track marshals led to Ota suing for negligence, ultimately winning 90 million yen in damages. His case prompted legal reforms in racing safety protocols to prevent future accidents. This incident remains a pivotal moment in motorsport history, influencing safety standards globally.

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Key Details

•The crash occurred during a storm at Fuji Speedway in 1998.
•Ota's car caught fire after colliding with a Porsche.
•Marshals took 90 seconds to respond to the accident.
•Ota won a legal case for negligence, receiving 90 million yen.
•Significant safety reforms were implemented following the incident.

Latest Updates

11:30 AMYahoo Sports — Why This Crash Changed Motorsport Forever

What they're saying

"
Motorsport is a dangerous game. It always has been, and it always will be. Thankfully, over the last two to three decades, deaths in racing have been mercifully low. Yet some crashes, as horrific as ... Read more
— Yahoo Sports

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