To mark the release of the final volume of MF Ghost, the sequel to the legendary racing manga Initial D by Shuichi Shigeno, a special newspaper campaign featuring a newly drawn illustration by Shigeno has launched across Japan.

This is the artist’s first new illustration in 11.5 years, spotlighting the three members of Project D—Takumi Fujiwara, Keisuke Takahashi, and Ryosuke Takahashi—along with their iconic vehicles: the Toyota AE86 Trueno, Mazda RX-7 FD3S, and Mazda RX-7 FC3S, respectively.

Ads Span Across Asahi and Yomiuri Newspapers

The vibrant, full-color 15-block ad is split between two national newspapers: The Asahi Shimbun and The Yomiuri Shimbun. When readers place both pages side by side, the illustration comes together as a unified, dramatic composition.

10 Regional Designs Featuring Key Locations and Cars

The campaign also includes 10 different regional versions, each tied to areas significant to the story or real-world car culture:

In Gunma Prefecture, where Takumi’s home and Project D's base are located, an exclusive version includes his father Bunta Fujiwara and the Subaru Impreza WRX STI.

In eight other prefectures associated with key street races and locations from the series, “Project D Expedition Battle Ads” are featured. These too are dual-page spreads that recreate legendary racing battles from the manga.

This multifaceted campaign blends nostalgia, artistry, and local car culture, delivering an unprecedented tribute to the Initial D and MF Ghost universe.

©2025 MF Ghost Production Committee

FAQ

What is this special Initial D newspaper ad campaign about?
It celebrates the final volume of MF Ghost, featuring a new illustration by creator Shuichi Shigeno after 11.5 years. The Project D trio and their cars are reunited across dual-page ads in major newspapers.

Which newspapers feature the ad?
The illustration appears across The Asahi Shimbun and The Yomiuri Shimbun. Placing both papers side by side completes the artwork.

Where are the regional editions published?
There are 10 versions, including a special Gunma edition featuring Bunta Fujiwara and his Subaru Impreza. Eight other prefectures tied to key battles also feature unique regional artwork.

Who are the featured characters and cars?
Takumi Fujiwara – Toyota AE86 Trueno
Keisuke Takahashi – Mazda RX-7 FD3S
Ryosuke Takahashi – Mazda RX-7 FC3S
Bunta Fujiwara (Gunma edition only) – Subaru Impreza WRX STI
When was the last time Shigeno drew a new illustration?
This is his first newly drawn illustration in 11.5 years, making it a major event for fans of the series.

Source : ORICON NEWS