Verstappen Wins in Suzuka - First Victory of the Season

The third round of the Formula 1 World Championship – the Japanese Grand Prix – was marked by Max Verstappen's confident victory. The Red Bull driver secured his first win of the season and the 64th of his career at Suzuka.

In Friday's free practice sessions, McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri showed impressive performances, but Verstappen demonstrated his skill in qualifying by securing pole position. This was his fourth consecutive pole at Suzuka.

Since overtaking is difficult at Suzuka, the qualifying session is considered the most crucial part of the weekend. In this session, a driver's skill and psychological resilience play a vital role. Under pressure, both McLaren drivers made mistakes, while the four-time world champion, Max Verstappen, made no errors in his final attempt, claiming his 41st career pole. It’s noteworthy that Verstappen's last pole position with Red Bull was at their home race in Austria. 

One of the most discussed topics among the media and fans, particularly the Japanese fans, was the driver change at Red Bull. Liam Lawson was sent back after just two races, and Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda was promoted to the main team – a huge gift for local fans in Suzuka.

There were no significant changes in the top ten after the start. Due to the track’s rubber buildup, tire grip was weak, and drivers were cautious. Throughout the race, strategic pit stops did not alter the positions. Verstappen maintained his lead and gave no chance to his rivals.

McLaren drivers Norris and Piastri completed the podium. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finished 4th, while Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli maintained their positions to finish the race.

The only overtake of the race was made by Ferrari’s seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, who passed debutant Ayzek Hager (Racing Bulls). Alex Albon (Williams) and Oliver Berman (Haas) finished in the points zone.

The championship is now heading towards the next round, the Bahrain evening race.