Race Queens Gather 100 Beautiful Women with Costumes Shifting to Idol Style
NAPAC Fuji SUPER TEC 24 Hour Race" attracted more than 50,000 fans, the largest ever!

The frilly skirts, jackets resemble uniforms. There’s a change happening in race queen costumes today.
Readers might often think of the old “formal attire” as highlighting the high-leg style. However, nowadays, cute designs reminiscent of idols have become mainstream.
At the end of May, during the “NAPAC Fuji SUPER TEC 24-hour Race,” which attracted a record-breaking 54,000 attendees, a notable shift in race queen attire was evident. Among the 100 race queens present, there were fewer daring outfits.
“I saw race queens in skirts, but there were significantly fewer provocative outfits emphasizing body lines as before. There was a noticeable shift towards an idol-like approach in how they were presented. Matsuda Ran, who won the Grand Prix at the Race Queen Awards announced in January this year, performed singing and dancing on a special stage, receiving enthusiastic cheers from over 100 fans. There were also signings and merchandise sales, resulting in long queues.” (spokesperson from the race management company)
At the venue, alongside racers, banners featuring race queens were displayed, creating an atmosphere akin to that of popular idols and their fans.
There are several factors behind the change in direction.
“It’s said that the banning of high-leg wear in the prestigious Japanese racing category ‘SUPER GT’ was one factor. The rules became even stricter in ’18, leading to a significant reduction in overly sexy outfits in other domestic races since then.
Actually, there’s a trend overseas toward phasing out race queens altogether. Sponsors no longer approve of emphasizing sexual aspects. To bring out feminine charm while reducing skin exposure, costumes are shifting from sexy to cute.” (Team Official)
It might feel a bit lonely, but their role continues to evolve with the times.












From “FRIDAY” June 21, 2024 issue
PHOTO: Takero Yui