Qualifying for this weekend's Japanese GP has been postponed due to the threat from the Ma-On Typhoon.

FIA Statement::

The following decision has been taken by the Stewards of the Japanese Grand Prix

Acting on the advice of the local Japanese Authorities, given the extreme weather forecast, circuit officials have proposed the closure of the Suzuka Circuit on Saturday 9th October, 2004.

The Stewards of the Meeting in accordance with Article 141 of the 2004 FIA International Sporting Code have accepted their proposal and have cancelled all sessions scheduled to take place on that date.

The revised timetable for Sunday 10th October, 2004 will be as follows

0900 - 0950:  Formula One  Pre-Qualifying Session1000 - 1100:  Formula One  Qualifying Session1145:   Formula One  Drivers Track Parade1210 - 1255:  Track Activity  40th Anniversary Demonstration1315 - 1345:  Formula One  Starting Grid Presentation1400:   Formula One  Pit Lane Open1415:   Formula One  Pit Lane Closed1416:   Formula One  National Anthem1430:   Formula One  Grand Prix (53 Laps)

The Qualifying Session will be run without breaks for the 6th, 11th and 16th cars as specified in Article 119 (c) & (d) of the 2004 FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations.

The normal parc ferme conditions will apply after the Qualifying Session.

All support races will be cancelled.