For the first time in the event’s history, the Japanese Grand Prix will take place in April, with Suzuka contesting the fourth round of the 2024 F1 season this weekend.
Last time out in Australia, Carlos Sainz led Ferrari to a one-two after the Spaniard returned from appendix surgery and ended Max Verstappen’s race-winning run.
Verstappen had won the last nine races but suffered his first retirement in two years due to a brake problem. However, many said that the Dutchman would not have won the race, or at least not easily, if he had taken the chequered flag.
Lando Norris’ third place at Albert Park makes him the driver with the most podiums (14) without a win in F1 and McLaren is strong again at Suzuka.
Norris and Osautomobile Piastri claimed a double podium at the Japanese GP six months ago, with their car adapted to the fast and flowing corners of Suzuka.
There are a lot of issues with Mercedes, as correlation issues mean the car gets the functionality you see at the factory.
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell were unable to finish in Melbourne and will have to respond in Japan, where Yuki Tsunoda will drive at home for RB.
As part of F1’s push towards a more sustainable and carbon-free race until 2030, the Japanese GP has been moved to early April and will therefore sit between the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix.
Conditions are similar to autumn itself at this time of year, so rain is still possible and the air temperature will be above ten degrees.
In February, Suzuka signed a new five-year contract extension to stay on the calendar until at least 2029.
The high-speed circuit, very popular with drivers, has hosted many memorable F1 moments, with 12 drivers’ championships held there.
“Suzuka is a special circuit and a component of the fabric, so I’m very happy that F1 will continue to race there at least until 2029,” F1 president Stefano Domenicali said.
“As we prepare to return to Japan earlier than usual this season, I would like to express my immense gratitude to the promoter and the Honda MobilityLand team for supporting our efforts to further simplify the calendar as we look to make the game more sustainable.
“Our enthusiasts in Japan embrace Formula 1 as an exclusive hobby and we look forward to working with the promoter to give enthusiasts the fun they deserve for years to come. “
This is a race to set alarm bells for, as Friday’s practice sessions will take place at 3:30 a. m. m. y at 7 a. m. Ahead of Saturday’s final practice at 3:30 a. m. m. and qualifying at 7 a. m.
The lights for the Japanese GP will be installed on Sunday at 6:00 a. m. , although there will also be a full replay of the race at 10:30 a. m. if you don’t feel like getting up early. As always, you’ll be able to watch it all live on Sky Sports F1. Featured matches and replays of each consultation will be broadcast over the weekend.
Sky Sports Main Event will also cover all live queries, and you’ll also be able to watch Sky Sports with a NOW Sports Month subscription.
Sunday, April a. m. : Preparation for the Japanese Grand Prix Sunday*6 a. m. : JAPANESE GRAND PRIX*8 a. m. : Checkered Flag: Japanese GP Reaction*9 a. m. : Ted’s Diary*9:30 a. m. : Japanese Grand Prix Highlights*10:30 a. m. : Japanese Grand Prix replay
*also at the Sky Sports Main Event
Formula 1’s biggest season continues with the Japanese Grand Prix, live on Sky Sports F1 from April 5-7. Stream any and all F1 races and more with a NOW Sports Month subscription: no contract, cancel anytime
You can now start receiving messages and alerts about the latest sports news, analysis, in-depth features, and videos from our engaged WhatsApp channel!
Find out here. . .