Mercedes Dominate First Practice at Suzuka
George Russell leads the drivers' championship by four points over Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli.
In the first practice session at the Japanese Grand Prix, George Russell secured the fastest time, narrowly edging out teammate Kimi Antonelli to give Mercedes a one-two finish. Russell beat Antonelli by a mere 0.026 seconds after the two drivers exchanged fastest laps midway through the session.
World champion Lando Norris, driving for McLaren, was third fastest, trailing Russell by 0.132 seconds.
Oscar Piastri, also of McLaren, was fourth, 0.199 seconds behind Russell, marking a promising start for the Australian and his team after a challenging beginning to the season. Aside from the Shanghai sprint, Piastri had not completed a racing lap in 2026, and both McLarens retired in China due to separate battery issues before the race began.
Ferrari and Hamilton Follow Closely
The Ferraris of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton placed fifth and sixth respectively. Leclerc was 0.289 seconds off the pace, setting his best lap after seven laps on soft tires. His session included an off-track excursion at the demanding Spoon Curve double left-hander. Leclerc was ahead of Hamilton by 0.085 seconds.
Red Bull and Other Teams' Performance
Max Verstappen of Red Bull, whose car featured an aerodynamic upgrade including new side pods, floor, and engine cover, was seventh fastest, 0.791 seconds behind Russell. Both Verstappen and Norris experienced difficulties at Spoon Curve, running wide due to a tailwind affecting entry.
Racing Bulls drivers Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad were eighth and tenth fastest, with Haas driver Esteban Ocon positioned between them in ninth.
Challenges for Williams and Aston Martin
Williams' Alex Albon faced a difficult session, running off track and hitting the wall at Degner Two, one of Suzuka's most challenging corners, midway through the session. Later, he spun after a collision with Cadillac's Sergio Perez, who appeared unaware of Albon's presence on the inside as Albon attempted an inside pass at the chicane.
The two Aston Martin cars were at the rear of the field during a weekend where engine partner Honda aims to demonstrate progress on its home circuit after a poor start to the season.
American reserve driver Jak Crawford, participating in one of Aston Martin's mandatory young driver days, drove Fernando Alonso's car and finished 22nd, just over a second slower than teammate Lance Stroll.
Technical Updates and Upgrades
Honda has introduced modifications intended to resolve engine vibration issues that have led to reliability problems and driver discomfort.
Aston Martin also brought an aerodynamic upgrade to Japan, featuring a new engine cover and front-of-floor components.
Event Details and Coverage
The Japanese Grand Prix will take place from 27-29 March, with the race scheduled for 06:00 BST on Sunday.
Live commentary will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, with live text updates provided on the website and app.
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