Prior to the start of the OKAYAMA GT 300km RACE, Round 1 of the 2026 AUTOBACS SUPER GT series, an opening ceremony was held at Okayama International Circuit, where Masaaki Bandoh, President & CEO of GTA Co., Ltd., and Shinichi Fujiwara, Senior Managing Director of AUTOBACS SEVEN Co., Ltd., jointly declared the opening of the 2026 SUPER GT season.

　President & CEO Bandoh addressed the audience at Okayama International Circuit, expressing his gratitude to the fans and all those involved in the event. “Amid global uncertainty caused by heightened tensions in the Middle East and growing concerns over energy issues, SUPER GT, as a form of motorsport that plays a role in supporting the development of Japan’s automotive industry, will once again place great importance on conserving resources and operating the series in an environmentally responsible manner. At the same time, we aim to deliver exciting and emotional racing, full of dreams and inspiration, that children can look up to,” he said. He continued by encouraging fans to fully enjoy the OKAYAMA GT 300km RACE and concluded by asking for continued support for SUPER GT throughout the season. “Please enjoy the OKAYAMA GT 300km RACE here today to your heart’s content. And once again, we sincerely ask for your continued support and encouragement for SUPER GT this year as well.”

　Following Bandoh, Senior Managing Director Fujiwara of AUTOBACS SEVEN took the stage to address the audience. “Once again, we are delighted to welcome the opening of the SUPER GT season. This marks our 28th year (as the title sponsor of the series). I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the fans who have gathered here at Okayama International Circuit today, as well as to the event organizers and our partner companies. At a time when Japan’s automotive industry is undergoing major changes driven by electrification and the advancement of AI, I believe that continuing to pursue the joy of driving, the challenge of technology, and manufacturing excellence that we can proudly present to the world, together with everyone who loves motorsport, represents a fundamental strength of Japan and an important part of our culture. With the support of all those who love motorsport, we hope to continue working together to grow SUPER GT into a stage with even greater value, one that Japan can be truly proud of on the world stage. And with that, I would like to once again declare the opening of the 2026 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Series. Let us all work together to make this a truly outstanding season.” He then concluded by officially declaring the start of the new season.