One of the unforgettable moments of 2023 was joining Super GT - GT300 race car driver and Castelli Japan ambassador Joao Paulo de Oliveira "JP" for a summer ride from central Tokyo to Fuji Speedway. That day, we retraced the route he takes to "go to work" (or in his words "my commute to work").

This year, we've decided to dedicate an episode of the Castelli podcast to him, so we can explore his story more deeply.

Brazilian born but living over 20 years in Japan, JP has raced a variety of car classes including Formula Nippon, the World Touring Car Cup, and Super GT, Japan's premier touring car series.

Super GT is known for its dramatic and exciting races, captivating millions of fans globally, and attracts world-class race car talents, both from Japan and abroad. We break down the difference between the single-seaters of Formula racing to the cutting-edge machines of Super GT.

But João's passion extends beyond the racetrack—training outside his usual environment is crucial to continue competing at high levels, and he has found cycling to be an optimal solution for staying fit and mentally sharp for every race. Learn how cycling not only keeps João in peak condition but also allows him to explore Japan’s stunning landscapes, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to serene countryside routes and the iconic climb up Mount Fuji.

Living in central Tokyo, early morning starts are essential to beat the traffic and get out of town. Early departures also mean dealing with less heat and humidity, as temperatures in Japanese metropolises can easily reach around 35°C during the summer months. Sometimes João starts his rides at 5 in the morning, heading towards Mount Fuji to tackle some of the climbs from the Tokyo 2021 Olympic road race.

Whether you’re into road cycling, curious about the high-tech world of Super GT, or someone who appreciates the finer things in life—like scenic bike routes, Tokyo’s cycling culture and delicious Japanese food— this episode has something for everyone.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that bridges the high-octane world of motorsport racing with the peaceful yet demanding sport of cycling.

Hope you’ll enjoy this episode!