Japanese Grand Prix 1995 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Michael Schumacher capped his dominant season with a crushing victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, claiming his ninth win of the year to equal Nigel Mansell's 1992 record. The German driver led from pole position to checkered flag at Suzuka, signing off from Benetton with a performance that underlined his status as Formula 1's benchmark driver.

Mika Hakkinen finished second for McLaren in an impressive drive that hinted at his future championship potential, while Johnny Herbert completed the podium for Benetton in third place. The result secured Herbert's season-long contribution to Benetton's constructors' championship triumph, the Englishman having delivered crucial points throughout the year. Damon Hill could only finish fourth, his season ending with another defeat to his great rival.

The Japanese Grand Prix marked the end of Schumacher's association with Benetton, the team that had nurtured him from rookie to two-time World Champion. His impending move to Ferrari for 1996 had been announced during the season, and this victory served as the perfect farewell. Schumacher's nine wins from 17 races, combined with his consistent point-scoring, had delivered a championship triumph that was thoroughly deserved. The season had established him as the sport's dominant force, and his move to Ferrari promised to be one of the most significant driver transfers in Formula 1 history.