By Miwako Sasaki
The 15th edition of the Japan Cup is a topic of conversation for Japanese cycling fans now. The organiser of the race has announced that it will charge people to watch it - an unprecedented move in Japan. The roadside from the start to the top of the hill, the most popular spectator viewing points on the 14.1 km circuit, will be closed and require a ticket.
The cost of the ticket is only thousand yen (€7), but most Japanese cycling fans are disappointed at this decision. The Japan Cup will be held on October 22, and the paying model could set a precedent for other races around the world.
Spanish teams Saunier Duval-Prodir and French Bouygues Telecom will start the race too. The Spanish team Caisse d'Epargne-Illes Balears has cancelled their participation, on the other hand, American Discovery Channel finally decided to race last week after negotiations with the organiser, so Japanese rider Fumiyuki Beppu can show his national champion's jersey to his supporters.
Lampre-Fondital
Saunier Duval-Prodir
Bouygues Telecom
Discovery Channel
Skil-Shimano
Miyata-Subaru
Aisan Racing Team
Team Vang Cycling
Team Matrix-Powertag
China National Team
Thailand National Team
Hong Kong China National Team
Chinese Taipei National Team
Japan National Team
