In 1996 and 1997, NASCAR held non-championship exhibition races on the East portion of the Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. Several Japanese, Australian and Winston West Series drivers participated among some of the Winston Cup Series regulars. In 1997, rain tires were used in NASCAR competition for the first time, being run in practice and qualifying. The races were broadcast on TBS in the U.S. The following year saw a race at Twin Ring Motegi.