After an electrifying end to Chinese F1, the season heads to Suzuka this weekend for the Japan Grand Prix. This is the third round of the campaign and Mercedes have been unstoppable so far, with George Russell winning in Melbourne and the Shanghai race, while 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli took his first Grand Prix win in China. Ferrari has also been impressive, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton joining the podium.
This race is important for teams like Aston Martin and Cadillac, who have yet to score. It also comes before an unusually long five-week break, when the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were canceled due to the conflict in the Middle East.
Suzuka Circuit: The Legend Track
Suzuka is one of Formula 1’s most exciting circuits, famous for its figure-eight layout and high-speed corners such as the Esses and 130R. The track is technically demanding and has often played an important role in world championships since the late 1980s. The 2026 race will run over 53 laps, covering more than 307 kilometers.
Schedule (Dubai Time)
- Friday, March 27: Practice 1 (6:30–7:30 AM), Practice 2 (10:00–11:00 PM)
- Saturday, March 28: Practice 3 (6:30–7:30 AM), Qualifying (10:00–11:00 PM)
- Sunday, March 29: The race will start at 9:00 am
Weather forecast
This year’s race is expected to be run in mild spring conditions. Temperatures will range from 15°C during practice to around 19°C at the start of the race, with moderate humidity and no rain forecast.
Rule Changes Before Suzuka
The FIA has reduced the maximum energy charge allowed per lap in qualifying from 9.0 megajoules to 8.0. Suzuka’s twisty corners make energy recovery difficult, and the new rule should allow drivers to push harder without resorting to lift-and-coast tactics.
Past Winners
Suzuka has taken the title of legends like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton. In recent years, Max Verstappen and Mercedes have dominated the Japanese F1 track. He has emerged as the champion in the last 4 Japanese F1 seasons.
How to Watch Free
This year Apple has bought F1 right and is offering 7 free election days. So you can go to Apple TV to enjoy Japanese Chiropractor for free.
Fans can follow live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Voices, and the BBC Sport website/app.
How to Buy Tickets
Tickets for the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka are available through the official Formula 1 website and authorized ticketing partners. Prices vary depending on the main area, with high seats facing corners like the 130R and the chicane.
What to Expect
Mercedes enter Suzuka as clear favourites, but Ferrari’s resurgence and revised energy rules could make qualifying more difficult than expected. With calm weather and a long break ahead, teams will be eager to add points before the tournament resumes in Miami.
Current Driver Standings for 2026 (After Second Round)
George Russell currently leads the 2026 Formula 1 drivers’ standings with 51 points, closely followed by Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli on 47 points. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are next in line, making Suzuka a crucial race for the championship battle.
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