We expected a rainy race and serious emotions from Suzuka, but in reality we got a masterful victory from Max Verstappen, perfectly controlled, which was not disturbed by anything, not even the promised precipitation.
Because they were missing, just like the brilliant battles and the fireworks. We won't remember this Japanese Grand Prix as the race of the year, which actually had two key moments: the start, which Verstappen easily mastered ahead of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, with the McLarens having no chance to change positions. It also didn't work on the track in terms of strength and pace, so Norris and his team wanted to do it tactically, which almost worked. Verstappen and Norris finished practically at the same time and left the pits; it was only thanks to the Dutchman's aggressiveness that there was no change of positions.
Thus, Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri led the field, while behind them, Charles Leclerc was spinning in an empty space. Even further behind, the two Mercedes followed with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli - the latter truly deserves credit for his balanced and remarkable performance as a rookie in a top-tier team. The only positive aspect of the race - besides Verstappen's impeccable performance - was the battle between the two McLarens and the performances of the rookies. Indeed, not only did Antonelli shine, but Isaac Hadjar was also aiming for a solid points haul, and Oliver Bearman once again appeared among the points scorers. However, the situation at the front did not change, so in the end, Max Verstappen took a masterful victory worthy of his name at the Japanese Grand Prix, ahead of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Photo: Independent / Japan GP
