Hagibis forces Japanese GP qualifying move

Organisers of Japan's Formula One Grand Prix have cancelled practice and qualifying sessions scheduled for Saturday due to the approach of Typhoon Hagibis.

Originally scheduled for 3 pm on Saturday local time, the hour-long qualifying that decides the race grid order will now be held at 10 o'clock on Sunday, a revised schedule issued by organisers showed.

The final practice session, which would normally take place before qualifying, will not be held. The race will go ahead as planned at 2.10 pm (12.10 pm AEDT) on Sunday.

Governing body FIA said it agreed with the decision taken by race promoters and the Japanese Automobile Federation (JAF).

"FIA and Formula One support this decision in the interest of safety for the spectators, competitors and everyone at the Suzuka Circuit," it said in a statement.

The circuit would be closed to the public and the media on Saturday, it added.

Typhoon Hagibis, categorised as a super-typhoon, is predicted to be one of the most violent to hit the region in recent years and is expected to strike the Tokyo area this weekend.

It has already forced the cancellation of two rugby World Cup matches.

Formula One races at the Suzuka circuit, located about 300 kilometres to the southwest of Tokyo.

The 2014 edition was held with rain from approaching Typhoon Phanfone drenching the track. An accident during the race caused the death of driver Jules Bianchi.

Qualifying in 2004 and 2010 was also postponed to Sunday due storms.