This year’s FIA Formula One World Championship Aramco Japanese Grand Prix is expected to offer not only high-speed racing, but also high-energy performance. Yoshiki, a world-renowned musician, composer, and Time100 honoree, is set to perform the Japanese national anthem, “Kimigayo,” as a ceremonial opening to one of the world’s biggest sporting events of the year on Sunday, March 29.
“I am deeply honored to perform the national anthem at such a prestigious venue as the Suzuka Circuit,” said Yoshiki. “Following my third surgery and an extensive period of recovery, I am looking forward to delivering my full sound to the world. I hope to share a special moment of unity through music on this global stage.”
Japan’s most internationally influential artist will deliver a first-of-its-kind arrangement featuring both piano and drums for more than 200,000 spectators in the Suzuka Circuit and fans watching from more than 180 countries and regions worldwide.
While others might balk at the opportunity, this level of performance comes naturally to Yoshiki. A composer, songwriter, pianist, drummer, and leader of the legendary rock band X Japan, he has built a global career spanning rock, classical music, film, fashion, and philanthropy. Yoshiki has performed at many of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Madison Square Garden and Carnegie Hall in New York, Wembley Arena, and Royal Albert Hall in London.
Yoshiki became the first Japanese artist selected for Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in the World” in 2025 (TIME100). He is also the first Japanese artist to be immortalized with handprints and footprints at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, and is the founder of the high-fashion house, Maison Yoshiki Paris, which recently debuted at Paris Fashion Week. His international work includes composing the official theme music for the Golden Globe Awards, as well as music for major films and global events.
The iconic performer is used to thousands of eyes following his movements on and off the stage, and after two and a half years of recovery, Yoshiki is ready to take on his next challenge.
The Formula 1 performance serves as the ultimate prelude to Yoshiki’s highly anticipated concert series, “Yoshiki Classical 2026: Awakening Eve”, taking place April 3–5 at the Tokyo Garden Theater. These shows kick off Chapter One of his 2026 world tour.
yoshiki.net
