Kazuki Nakajima secured his place in motorsport history by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans three consecutive times between 2018 and 2020. A native of Okazaki, Japan, Nakajima evolved from a promising karting competitor in the late 1990s into a consistent force in both Formula One and endurance racing championships throughout his professional career.
Early Career and Formula One Progression
Nakajima began karting in 1996 and earned the Suzuka Formula ICA title before joining the Toyota Young Drivers Program. He secured the Formula Toyota scholarship in 2002, followed by a transition to the Japanese Formula Three series in 2004. By 2006, he was competing in the Formula Three Euroseries. That same year, he joined Williams as a test driver, conducting his first demonstration laps at Fuji Speedway.
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Nakajima debuted in Formula One at the 2007 season finale, finishing tenth. He became a full-time Williams driver for the 2008 season, scoring points in Monaco and Singapore. His 2009 campaign proved more challenging, as he failed to score points throughout the season. Following the end of his Williams tenure, he was linked to Stefan GP in 2010, though the team failed to secure an entry for the championship.
Endurance Racing Success
After his time in Formula One, Nakajima found sustained success in endurance racing with Toyota. He won the Super Formula Championship twice, in 2012 and 2014, while driving for TOM'S. In the FIA World Endurance Championship, he achieved the series title for the 2018–19 period. Since 2022, he has served as vice-chairman of Toyota in the WEC, contributing to three consecutive World Manufacturers' Championship titles through 2024.
Fast facts
- Born: 1985, Okazaki, Japan
- Formula One team: Williams (2007–2009)
- Super Formula Championship wins: 2012, 2014
- Current role: Vice-chairman of Toyota in WEC
- Early education: Okazaki Junior High School
Questions readers ask
Did Kazuki Nakajima win the 24 Hours of Le Mans?
Yes, he won the race three consecutive times from 2018 to 2020 driving for Toyota.
Which Formula One team did Nakajima race for?
He competed for Williams between 2007 and 2009.
Achievements
- Represented Davidson-Buemi-Nakajima
- Competed at 2012 Drivers' World Endurance Championship, 2013 FIA World Endurance Drivers' Championship and 2014 FIA World Endurance Drivers' Championship
- Discipline: auto racing
