F1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka: Circuit Guide, History and Records

The Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka is one of Formula 1’s most celebrated challenges, combining an extraordinary figure-eight layout with flowing high-speed corners, dramatic elevation changes and some of the most recognisable sections anywhere on the calendar.

The 5.807-kilometre Suzuka Circuit contains 18 corners and rewards rhythm, precision and aerodynamic stability. The famous S Curves dominate the opening sector, while the Degner corners, Spoon Curve and 130R create a sequence in which driver confidence and car balance are constantly tested.

Suzuka is also unique on the Formula 1 calendar because the circuit crosses over itself, creating its distinctive figure-eight configuration. The track originally began life as a Honda test facility before becoming the permanent home of the Japanese Grand Prix for most of the event’s modern history.

The 2026 Japanese Grand Prix delivered another Ferrari podium. Charles Leclerc finished third after recovering from an unfavourable Safety Car period and then defending against George Russell in the closing stages. Lewis Hamilton briefly ran third after the restart before eventually finishing sixth.

The Japanese Grand Prix is set to return to Suzuka in 2027. The exact date, championship round, weekend format and session timetable will be added once Formula 1 and the FIA publish the complete official 2027 calendar.

Explore Ferrari news, technical analysis and results from the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix.

Japanese Grand Prix at a glance

Next Japanese Grand Prix: 2027

The Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix is already confirmed to return to Suzuka in 2027. Formula 1’s official ticketing platform lists the next Japanese Grand Prix and allows fans to join the waiting list.

The precise race date, championship round and session timetable should not yet be assumed from the 2026 event. The same applies to the weekend format, including whether the Japanese Grand Prix will be selected for a Sprint.

Once Formula 1 and the FIA publish the complete 2027 calendar and sporting details, this section can be expanded with the confirmed dates, practice schedule, qualifying time and Grand Prix start time.

The longer-term future of Suzuka is already secure. Formula 1 agreed a five-year extension with the Japanese Grand Prix that keeps the event at Suzuka through the 2029 season.

What happened at the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix?

Kimi Antonelli claimed his second consecutive Formula 1 victory at the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix, winning for Mercedes ahead of Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc.

Antonelli had secured pole position on Saturday with a 1:28.778, beating Mercedes teammate George Russell by 0.298 seconds. Oscar Piastri qualified third for McLaren, while Charles Leclerc placed Ferrari on the second row in fourth.

Lewis Hamilton qualified sixth in the second Ferrari, behind Lando Norris.

The beginning of the race immediately changed the order. Piastri made an excellent start from third and moved into the lead through Turn 1, while both Mercedes drivers lost positions.

Leclerc also launched strongly from fourth and moved ahead of the Mercedes pair to run second behind Piastri during the opening phase. Russell soon began recovering and eventually moved back ahead of Leclerc. With Piastri and Russell running near the front, Antonelli remained on a longer opening stint while several rivals made their pit stops.

Ferrari brought Leclerc in early to cover the threat from Lando Norris. That decision initially appeared logical, but the strategic picture changed dramatically on lap 22. Oliver Bearman crashed his Haas heavily at Spoon Curve, bringing out the Safety Car. Antonelli had not yet stopped and was able to make his pit stop under the reduced-speed conditions, emerging in the lead.

Hamilton also benefited from stopping during the Safety Car period. At the restart, he passed Russell and briefly moved into third position. Leclerc, however, was faster during the second half of the race. He worked his way back through the order and passed Russell before also overtaking Hamilton to reclaim the final podium position.

Hamilton subsequently lost positions to Russell and Norris while struggling for pace and power, eventually finishing sixth. At the front, Antonelli controlled the restart and gradually built a comfortable advantage. He won by 13.722 seconds over Piastri. Leclerc finished only 1.548 seconds behind the McLaren and successfully held Russell behind him during the closing laps. The margin between Leclerc and Russell at the chequered flag was just 0.484 seconds.

The third-place finish gave Leclerc his second podium of the opening three races of the season. Hamilton added eight points in sixth, giving Ferrari a total of 23 points from the Grand Prix.

Antonelli’s victory also moved him into the lead of the Drivers’ Championship, making him the youngest driver in Formula 1 history to lead the championship standings.

2026 Japanese Grand Prix qualifying

2026 Japanese Grand Prix result

Kimi Antonelli also recorded the fastest lap of the race with a 1:32.432 on lap 49.

Recent Japanese Grand Prix winners

The Japanese Grand Prix was not held in 2020 or 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Suzuka Circuit information

What makes Suzuka unique?

Suzuka is the only circuit on the current Formula 1 calendar built around a true figure-eight configuration. The first half of the lap eventually passes over the second through an overpass, creating a layout unlike any other Grand Prix venue.

The circuit was originally created as a test track for Honda. Dutch designer John Hugenholtz was responsible for a layout intended to challenge both cars and drivers across a wide variety of corner types.

That philosophy remains evident today. Suzuka contains fast corners, slow corners, long-radius bends, rapid direction changes, elevation changes and several sections where one mistake affects multiple corners. The first sector is dominated by rhythm. After negotiating Turns 1 and 2, drivers enter the famous S Curves, where the car changes direction repeatedly while remaining under substantial aerodynamic load.

The Degner corners demand a different form of precision. Drivers attack the first Degner at high speed before immediately preparing for the tighter second corner, with gravel waiting for mistakes. The Hairpin then reduces the speed dramatically before the lap builds again towards Spoon Curve. Spoon is another defining Suzuka corner. Its double-apex shape rewards patience, because accelerating too early can force the car wide and compromise the crucial exit.

From there, drivers accelerate towards 130R, historically one of Formula 1’s most intimidating high-speed corners.

The lap concludes with heavy braking for the final chicane before the cars accelerate onto the start-finish straight.

Why the Suzuka S Curves are so important

The sequence from Turns 3 through 7 is one of Formula 1’s purest tests of aerodynamic balance and driver rhythm.

Rather than treating each corner independently, drivers must consider the entire sequence. Carrying slightly too much speed into one part can place the car on the wrong side of the circuit for the next change of direction.

The first movement is to the left before the track repeatedly switches direction as it climbs gently through the opening sector. Drivers need a responsive front axle because any initial understeer makes it difficult to position the car correctly for the following corner.

Rear stability is just as important. A sudden slide forces the driver to lift the throttle and breaks the rhythm of the complete sequence The best cars allow the driver to make small, confident steering inputs while keeping speed high throughout the entire section.

Following another car closely is difficult because the pursuing driver loses aerodynamic load at precisely the point where front-end confidence is most valuable.

The S Curves therefore provide an excellent indication of a Formula 1 car’s overall aerodynamic quality.

A lap of the Suzuka Formula 1 circuit

Turns 1 and 2

Drivers approach Turn 1 at high speed and begin turning before completing all of their braking.

The first right-hander immediately feeds into the tighter Turn 2, meaning the driver must control speed while preparing the car for the sequence that follows.

A poor entry can create understeer at Turn 2 and leave the car badly positioned for the first S Curve.

On the opening lap, Turn 1 can provide an overtaking opportunity because several cars may run side by side before the circuit narrows.

Turns 3 to 7: the S Curves

The S Curves begin immediately after Turn 2 and require continuous changes of direction.

Drivers move from one side of the circuit to the other while gradually building speed, relying heavily on aerodynamic grip.

The section rewards smooth steering rather than aggressive corrections. Every unnecessary movement generates tyre slip and costs momentum.

The final part of the sequence, commonly associated with the Dunlop Curve, carries the cars uphill towards the Degners.

Degner 1 and Degner 2

Degner 1 is a fast right-hander approached with considerable commitment.

Drivers need to carry enough speed to minimise lap time without running beyond the track and into the gravel.

Immediately afterwards, they must slow much more sharply for Degner 2.

The relationship between the two corners makes the section particularly difficult. Entering the first too quickly can destroy the braking line for the second.

The Hairpin

The Hairpin is one of Suzuka’s slowest corners and provides a dramatic contrast with the high-speed sections that surround it.

Drivers brake while the car is still completing the preceding right-hand bend, making stability under braking important.

Mechanical grip becomes the priority as the driver rotates the car through the tight left-hander.

A clean exit is vital because the circuit begins accelerating towards Spoon Curve.

200R and the approach to Spoon

After leaving the Hairpin, drivers accelerate through a long right-hand section traditionally known as 200R.

The car continues building speed before the driver prepares for one of Suzuka’s defining corners.

Balance remains important because any unnecessary steering correction can increase tyre temperatures before Spoon.

Spoon Curve

Spoon is a long double-apex left-hander and one of the most technically demanding corners on the circuit.

The first part requires the driver to slow the car while maintaining enough momentum to position it correctly for the second apex.

Patience is essential. Applying the throttle too early pushes the car towards the outside and may force the driver to lift again.

The second part is especially important because the exit leads onto one of Suzuka’s longest full-throttle sections.

A driver who achieves better traction at Spoon carries that advantage for several hundred metres towards 130R.

130R

130R is one of Formula 1’s most famous corners. The high-speed left-hander takes its name from the radius of the original corner.

Modern Formula 1 cars can negotiate the section at extremely high speed, but the corner continues to demand confidence because of the limited margin for error.

Drivers approach after a long period of acceleration from Spoon, placing the car under substantial aerodynamic load as they turn left.

Wind direction, fuel load and tyre condition can alter the level of commitment required.

The exit leads almost immediately towards the final braking zone.

Casio Triangle

Drivers brake heavily after 130R for the final chicane, historically known as the Casio Triangle.

The right-left sequence is one of the best overtaking opportunities on the circuit because cars arrive at high speed before slowing dramatically.

The inside line is available for an attacking driver, but braking too late may create a poor exit and allow the rival to respond.

Several championship-defining incidents have occurred in this part of Suzuka, making it one of the most historically significant sections of any Formula 1 circuit.

Turn 18 and the finish line

The final right-hand bend follows immediately after the chicane and leads onto the main straight.

Drivers want to apply power as early as possible to maximise speed towards Turn 1.

During qualifying, traction and electrical energy deployment can influence the final few hundredths of a second as the car reaches the timing line.

Suzuka setup and technical demands

Suzuka demands strong aerodynamic performance because so much of the lap is spent in medium- and high-speed corners.

Teams generally require substantial downforce to give drivers confidence through the S Curves, Degners, Spoon and 130R.

However, simply adding maximum wing is not necessarily ideal. The circuit contains long full-throttle sections where excessive drag reduces straight-line speed and increases vulnerability during overtaking battles. Aerodynamic efficiency is therefore particularly valuable. Teams want the car to produce high levels of useful downforce without paying an excessive penalty on the straights.

Front-end response is one of the most important characteristics. The S Curves require the car to change direction repeatedly, and understeer can create time loss through an entire sequence rather than only a single corner.

The rear of the car must remain predictable at high speed. Sudden oversteer through the Degners or 130R can force the driver to make a large correction or leave the circuit. Mechanical grip becomes more important at the Hairpin and final chicane. The suspension must therefore perform across both fast aerodynamic sections and slower traction-limited corners.

Ride-height control is also significant. Suzuka contains elevation changes and kerbs that can disturb the aerodynamic platform if the car moves excessively. Wind is another factor. Because many corners are taken at high speed, even relatively small changes in wind direction can affect braking points and aerodynamic balance.

Explore our Ferrari technical analysis section for detailed coverage of Ferrari’s aerodynamic configuration, suspension, energy management, tyre behaviour and setup decisions at Suzuka.

Suzuka and the 2026 Formula 1 regulations

The arrival of Formula 1’s new technical regulations in 2026 created an additional challenge at Suzuka.

The new generation of cars combines active aerodynamics with a much greater emphasis on electrical energy management. Suzuka is particularly interesting in this context because the lap contains many long, fast sections and comparatively few major braking zones.

Teams therefore need to manage energy carefully throughout the lap, deciding where electrical deployment provides the greatest performance benefit. The removal of the traditional Drag Reduction System also changed the way drivers approach overtaking. Active aerodynamic modes are available to the cars, while Overtake Mode can provide an additional energy advantage to a driver close enough to a rival.

The high-speed nature of Suzuka makes efficient deployment particularly valuable because a loss of electrical assistance can translate into a substantial straight-line-speed difference.

Tyre management at the Japanese Grand Prix

Suzuka is one of Formula 1’s more demanding circuits for tyres because of the sustained energy generated through its long and fast corners.

Unlike circuits dominated by heavy braking and acceleration, Suzuka repeatedly places lateral load through the tyres.

The S Curves create rapid changes in load from one side of the car to the other, while Spoon keeps the tyres under stress for an extended period. High-speed corners can raise both surface and internal tyre temperatures. Drivers need to avoid excessive sliding because once temperatures move beyond the optimal window, grip falls and further sliding can follow.

Front-tyre condition is particularly important through the first sector. A driver suffering from understeer may damage the front tyres while attempting to maintain speed through the S Curves.

Rear tyres face a different challenge at the Hairpin and final chicane, where traction is important. Weather can dramatically alter the picture. Cooler spring temperatures may make tyre warm-up more difficult, particularly on harder compounds.

Rain remains another possibility at Suzuka, and the circuit’s high speeds can create significant visibility problems when spray becomes heavy.

Strategy at the Japanese Grand Prix

A one-stop strategy can be attractive at Suzuka when tyre degradation remains controlled, but teams must balance track position against the pace advantage available from fresher tyres.

The circuit is difficult for overtaking compared with venues that contain repeated heavy braking zones, increasing the value of maintaining track position.

The undercut can therefore be effective. A driver moving onto fresh tyres may gain enough lap time to pass a rival who remains on worn rubber. However, tyre warm-up can influence the success of the move. If a fresh set takes several corners to reach its operating window, some of the theoretical undercut advantage disappears.

The overcut can work when the driver staying out has clear air and strong tyre condition. Safety Cars are another major strategic consideration. Suzuka’s gravel traps, high speeds and limited recovery areas mean accidents can require race-control intervention.

The 2026 Japanese Grand Prix demonstrated the potential impact. Charles Leclerc stopped before Oliver Bearman’s accident, while Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton were able to stop during the subsequent Safety Car period.

Antonelli converted that opportunity into the race lead and ultimately victory.

Why overtaking is difficult at Suzuka

Suzuka contains long straights, but much of the lap consists of fast corners where following another Formula 1 car can be difficult.

A pursuing driver needs strong front grip through the S Curves and Spoon to remain close enough to attack later in the lap. Turbulent air from the car ahead can reduce that front-end performance and force the chasing driver to lift the throttle.

The final chicane remains one of the clearest overtaking opportunities because it follows the high-speed run through 130R. Turn 1 can also provide an opportunity, particularly when a driver achieves a strong exit from the final corner and carries additional speed along the main straight.

The Hairpin occasionally produces overtaking as well, although the approach is less straightforward.

Rather than offering repeated easy passes, Suzuka tends to reward drivers who can remain close through technically difficult sections before committing to an attack.

Weather at the Japanese Grand Prix

Weather has played a major role throughout the history of the Japanese Grand Prix.

For many years the event took place in the autumn, when heavy rain and typhoon activity could affect the race weekend. The Japanese Grand Prix moved to a spring date in 2024 as Formula 1 reorganised parts of the calendar to improve geographical efficiency. The change reduced some of the traditional autumn weather risk, but conditions can still vary considerably.

Cool temperatures can complicate tyre warm-up, while rain transforms Suzuka into one of the most demanding wet circuits in Formula 1.

High-speed corners generate significant spray, and standing water can make visibility particularly difficult.

The changeable conditions also increase the strategic importance of forecasting. A decision to switch between slicks and intermediate tyres at the correct moment can determine the outcome of the race.

History of the Japanese Grand Prix

The Japanese Grand Prix first became part of the Formula 1 World Championship in 1976.

That inaugural championship event took place at Fuji Speedway and immediately became one of the most famous races in Formula 1 history.

Japan hosted another race at Fuji in 1977 before disappearing from the championship for a decade. Formula 1 returned to Japan in 1987, this time at Suzuka Circuit. The event quickly became one of the championship’s defining races because its position late in the season meant that numerous Drivers’ Championships were decided there.

Fuji Speedway briefly returned as the host of the Japanese Grand Prix in 2007 and 2008.

The event moved back to Suzuka in 2009 and has remained there ever since, apart from the cancellations in 2020 and 2021.

Suzuka has hosted some of Formula 1’s greatest championship battles and has been the scene of 12 Drivers’ Championship title decisions.

Memorable Japanese Grand Prix moments

James Hunt wins the 1976 championship at Fuji

The first World Championship Japanese Grand Prix took place in exceptionally wet conditions at Fuji Speedway.

Niki Lauda entered the race fighting James Hunt for the Drivers’ Championship only weeks after returning from the severe injuries he suffered at the Nürburgring. Lauda withdrew from the race because he considered the conditions too dangerous.

Hunt continued and finished third, scoring enough points to become World Champion by a single point.

Mario Andretti won the race for Lotus.

Gerhard Berger gives Ferrari the first Suzuka victory in 1987

Formula 1 returned to Japan in 1987 with Suzuka hosting the championship for the first time.

Gerhard Berger started from pole position for Ferrari and controlled the race to become the first Formula 1 winner at Suzuka.

The result began an extraordinarily important relationship between Ferrari and the Japanese circuit.

Ayrton Senna becomes champion in 1988

The 1988 Japanese Grand Prix provided one of Ayrton Senna’s defining performances.

Senna stalled at the start and dropped through the field, but Suzuka’s downhill start allowed him to restart the engine.

He recovered dramatically through the field, eventually passing McLaren teammate Alain Prost and winning the race.

The victory secured Senna’s first Formula 1 World Championship.

Senna and Prost collide in 1989

The rivalry between Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna reached breaking point at the 1989 Japanese Grand Prix.

The McLaren teammates collided at the final chicane while fighting for the lead.

Prost retired, while Senna continued after receiving assistance and crossed the line first.

Senna was subsequently disqualified, leaving Prost as World Champion.

Senna and Prost collide again in 1990

Twelve months later, the title rivals returned to Suzuka with Prost now driving for Ferrari.

Senna started from pole and Prost from second.

The two collided at the first corner immediately after the start, eliminating both cars.

The result mathematically secured the World Championship for Senna and created one of the most controversial moments in Formula 1 history.

Damon Hill becomes champion in 1996

Damon Hill arrived at Suzuka fighting Williams teammate Jacques Villeneuve for the 1996 Drivers’ Championship.

Hill controlled the Grand Prix and won, while Villeneuve retired after a wheel problem.

The victory made Hill Formula 1 World Champion, 34 years after his father Graham Hill had won his first title.

Mika Häkkinen defeats Michael Schumacher in 1998

The 1998 championship battle between Mika Häkkinen and Michael Schumacher reached its conclusion at Suzuka.

Schumacher secured pole position but stalled before the formation lap and was forced to start from the back of the grid.

He recovered through the field before retiring with a tyre failure.

Häkkinen won the race and secured his first Drivers’ Championship.

Michael Schumacher ends Ferrari’s 21-year wait in 2000

The 2000 Japanese Grand Prix became one of the most important races in Ferrari history.

Michael Schumacher and Mika Häkkinen fought throughout the race, with Schumacher gaining the advantage during the pit-stop phase. Schumacher won and secured the Drivers’ Championship, becoming Ferrari’s first Formula 1 World Champion since Jody Scheckter in 1979.

The victory began an unprecedented period of championship success for Schumacher and Ferrari.

Ferrari helps Michael Schumacher secure his sixth title in 2003

Michael Schumacher entered the 2003 Japanese Grand Prix needing a single point to guarantee the Drivers’ Championship.

His race was difficult, but Schumacher finished eighth and secured the required point. Rubens Barrichello won the Grand Prix for Ferrari, helping protect Schumacher’s championship position against Kimi Räikkönen.

Schumacher’s sixth title moved him beyond Juan Manuel Fangio’s long-standing record of five Drivers’ Championships.

Kimi Räikkönen wins from 17th in 2005

The 2005 Japanese Grand Prix produced one of Formula 1’s greatest recovery drives.

Kimi Räikkönen started only 17th for McLaren after a difficult qualifying session. He charged through the field and caught race leader Giancarlo Fisichella during the closing laps.

Räikkönen completed a dramatic pass around the outside of Turn 1 on the final lap and went on to win. Seventeenth remains the lowest starting position from which a driver has won at Suzuka.

Sebastian Vettel clinches the 2011 title

Sebastian Vettel arrived in Japan needing only a small number of points to secure his second consecutive Drivers’ Championship.

Jenson Button won the race for McLaren, but Vettel’s third-place finish was sufficient to clinch the title.

Max Verstappen becomes champion in the rain in 2022

The Japanese Grand Prix returned in 2022 after two years of cancellations.

Heavy rain caused a lengthy red-flag interruption and dramatically shortened the race.

Max Verstappen dominated after the restart and won ahead of Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez on the road.

Leclerc received a five-second penalty after leaving the circuit while defending from Perez on the final lap, dropping the Ferrari to third.

The resulting points calculation confirmed Verstappen as World Champion for the second time.

Max Verstappen wins four consecutive Japanese Grands Prix

Verstappen established a remarkable run of success at Suzuka between 2022 and 2025.

The Red Bull driver won four consecutive Japanese Grands Prix and started each of the 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 races from pole position.

His 2025 qualifying lap of 1:26.983 remains the fastest qualifying lap recorded at Suzuka.

Kimi Antonelli breaks Verstappen’s winning streak in 2026

Kimi Antonelli ended Verstappen’s sequence in 2026.

The Mercedes driver secured pole position and then benefited from extending his opening stint before the Safety Car caused by Oliver Bearman’s accident.

After making his pit stop under caution, Antonelli controlled the restart and won comfortably ahead of Oscar Piastri.

Charles Leclerc completed the podium for Ferrari.

Ferrari’s history at the Japanese Grand Prix

Ferrari has played a central role in Japanese Grand Prix history and has won the event seven times.

All seven Ferrari victories came at Suzuka, beginning with the circuit’s first Formula 1 race in 1987.

Gerhard Berger wins Suzuka’s first Formula 1 race

Gerhard Berger gave Ferrari an immediate place in Suzuka history by winning the circuit’s inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix in 1987.

Berger started from pole and delivered Ferrari’s second victory of that season. He followed it by winning again at the Australian Grand Prix, giving Ferrari victories in the final two races of the year.

Michael Schumacher wins in 1997

Michael Schumacher claimed his first Japanese Grand Prix victory as a Ferrari driver in 1997.

The result kept his championship battle with Jacques Villeneuve alive heading into the final round at Jerez.

Schumacher’s historic 2000 title

The greatest Ferrari moment at Suzuka came three years later.

Schumacher defeated Mika Häkkinen in an intense strategic battle and clinched the Drivers’ World Championship.

Ferrari had waited 21 years since Jody Scheckter’s 1979 title for another Drivers’ Champion.

The Suzuka victory therefore represented one of the defining moments of Ferrari’s modern Formula 1 history.

Ferrari dominates Suzuka from 2000 to 2004

The 2000 victory began an extraordinary sequence for Ferrari.

Schumacher won again in 2001 and 2002 before Rubens Barrichello took victory in 2003.

Schumacher returned to the top step in 2004.

Ferrari therefore won five consecutive Japanese Grands Prix at Suzuka between 2000 and 2004.

Rubens Barrichello protects Ferrari’s championship in 2003

Rubens Barrichello played an important role in Michael Schumacher’s 2003 championship victory.

While Schumacher struggled through the field, Barrichello won the race and prevented Kimi Räikkönen from taking the maximum number of points.

Schumacher finished eighth and secured his sixth Drivers’ Championship by two points.

Felipe Massa fights for the championship in 2006

Ferrari remained competitive at Suzuka in 2006 as Michael Schumacher fought Fernando Alonso for the championship.

Schumacher led much of the race before suffering an engine failure, one of the decisive moments of the title battle.

Felipe Massa finished second for Ferrari behind Alonso.

Ferrari returns to pole in 2019

Sebastian Vettel secured pole position for Ferrari at the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix following a qualifying session held on Sunday morning because of severe weather earlier in the weekend.

Vettel finished second in the race behind Valtteri Bottas. Charles Leclerc started alongside him on the front row but damaged his front wing after contact with Max Verstappen during the opening lap.

Charles Leclerc fights for victory in 2022

Ferrari returned to Suzuka in 2022 with Charles Leclerc still mathematically capable of delaying Max Verstappen’s championship celebration.

Leclerc qualified only 0.010 seconds behind Verstappen and ran second for much of the rain-affected race. Under pressure from Sergio Perez during the final lap, Leclerc left the circuit at the final chicane and received a five-second penalty.

The penalty dropped him from second to third and confirmed Verstappen as World Champion.

Charles Leclerc leads Ferrari in 2025

Charles Leclerc qualified fourth at Suzuka in 2025, while Lewis Hamilton started eighth during his first Japanese Grand Prix as a Ferrari driver.

Leclerc finished fourth in the race, 16.097 seconds behind winner Max Verstappen.

Hamilton gained one position to finish seventh.

Leclerc returns Ferrari to the Suzuka podium in 2026

Charles Leclerc again qualified fourth in 2026 but produced an excellent start to move into second position behind Oscar Piastri.

An early pit stop meant he missed the strategic advantage created by the later Safety Car, dropping him behind cars that were able to stop under caution.

Leclerc recovered by passing George Russell and Lewis Hamilton before defending successfully against Russell through the closing stages.

His third-place finish delivered another Suzuka podium for Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton briefly moved into third after the Safety Car restart but struggled during the final part of the race and finished sixth.

Japanese Grand Prix records and statistics

• First World Championship Japanese Grand Prix: 1976.
• First venue: Fuji Speedway.
• First Formula 1 Japanese GP at Suzuka: 1987.
• Current venue: Suzuka Circuit.
• Circuit length: 5.807 kilometres.
• Number of corners: 18.
• Race laps: 53.
• Race distance: 307.471 kilometres.
• Unique layout: Suzuka is Formula 1’s only figure-eight circuit.
• Official race lap record: Kimi Antonelli, 1:30.965 for Mercedes in 2025.
• Fastest qualifying lap: Max Verstappen, 1:26.983 for Red Bull in 2025.
• Most Japanese Grand Prix victories: Michael Schumacher, with six.
• Most Japanese Grand Prix pole positions: Michael Schumacher, with eight.
• Most successful constructor: McLaren, with nine Japanese Grand Prix victories.
• Ferrari Japanese Grand Prix victories: seven.
• Ferrari’s first Japanese GP victory: Gerhard Berger in 1987.
• Ferrari’s most recent Japanese GP victory: Michael Schumacher in 2004.
• Ferrari’s longest winning sequence: five consecutive victories from 2000 through 2004.
• Lowest winning grid position at Suzuka: 17th, Kimi Räikkönen in 2005.
• Drivers’ Championships decided at Suzuka: 12.
• Most recent winner: Kimi Antonelli in 2026.
• Current Formula 1 agreement: through 2029.

Frequently asked questions about the Japanese Grand Prix

Where is the Japanese Grand Prix held?

The Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix is held at Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan.

When is the next Japanese Grand Prix?

The Japanese Grand Prix is confirmed to return to Suzuka in 2027. The exact race date and timetable should be added once the complete official 2027 Formula 1 calendar is published.

Is the 2027 Japanese Grand Prix confirmed?

Yes. Formula 1’s official ticketing platform already lists the 2027 Japanese Grand Prix, while Suzuka has a hosting agreement through 2029.

Will the 2027 Japanese Grand Prix be a Sprint?

The 2027 weekend format has not yet been confirmed. The Sprint status should be added only after Formula 1 publishes the official 2027 Sprint calendar.

How long is the Suzuka Circuit?

Suzuka measures 5.807 kilometres. The Japanese Grand Prix covers 53 laps and a race distance of 307.471 kilometres.

How many corners does Suzuka have?

The circuit contains 18 corners, ranging from the technical S Curves to Spoon and the high-speed 130R.

Why is Suzuka a figure-eight circuit?

The two halves of the track cross at different heights using an overpass. This creates the only true figure-eight configuration on the current Formula 1 calendar.

Who designed Suzuka?

Dutch circuit designer John Hugenholtz designed Suzuka, which was originally created as a test facility for Honda.

When did Formula 1 first race at Suzuka?

Suzuka hosted its first Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix in 1987. Gerhard Berger won for Ferrari.

When was the first Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix?

The first World Championship Japanese Grand Prix was held at Fuji Speedway in 1976.

What are the Suzuka S Curves?

The S Curves are the flowing sequence of direction changes following Turns 1 and 2. They require precise car placement, strong front-end response and aerodynamic stability.

What is 130R?

130R is Suzuka’s famous high-speed left-hand corner located after the long acceleration from Spoon Curve and before the final chicane.

What is Spoon Curve?

Spoon is a long double-apex left-hander. Drivers need patience on the throttle because its exit determines speed along the long acceleration towards 130R.

Where is the best overtaking opportunity at Suzuka?

The final chicane after 130R is one of the clearest overtaking opportunities. Turn 1 and the Hairpin can also produce passes depending on tyre and performance differences.

Why is Suzuka difficult for Formula 1 cars?

The circuit combines fast direction changes, long-radius corners, slow traction zones, elevation changes and high-speed sections. A competitive car must therefore perform well across a very broad range of conditions.

Why is Suzuka difficult on tyres?

Long and fast corners generate sustained lateral loads, particularly through the S Curves and Spoon. Sliding can quickly increase tyre temperatures and degradation.

Who holds the Suzuka race lap record?

Kimi Antonelli holds the official Formula 1 race lap record with a 1:30.965 set for Mercedes during the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix.

What is the fastest qualifying lap at Suzuka?

Max Verstappen recorded a 1:26.983 for Red Bull while taking pole position for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix.

Who has won the Japanese Grand Prix most often?

Michael Schumacher holds the record with six victories.

Who has the most Japanese Grand Prix pole positions?

Michael Schumacher also holds the pole-position record with eight.

How many times has Ferrari won the Japanese Grand Prix?

Ferrari has won the World Championship Japanese Grand Prix seven times, with all seven victories coming at Suzuka.

Who won Ferrari’s first Japanese Grand Prix?

Gerhard Berger won the first Formula 1 race at Suzuka for Ferrari in 1987.

Who won Ferrari’s most recent Japanese Grand Prix?

Michael Schumacher delivered Ferrari’s most recent Japanese Grand Prix victory in 2004.

What was Ferrari’s greatest winning streak at Suzuka?

Ferrari won five consecutive Japanese Grands Prix between 2000 and 2004, with Michael Schumacher winning four and Rubens Barrichello one.

Why was Michael Schumacher’s 2000 Suzuka victory so important?

The victory secured Schumacher’s first Drivers’ Championship with Ferrari and ended the Scuderia’s 21-year wait for a Formula 1 Drivers’ title.

Who won the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix?

Kimi Antonelli won for Mercedes ahead of Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc.

How did Charles Leclerc finish on the podium in 2026?

Leclerc lost strategic ground because he had stopped before the Safety Car, but he recovered by passing rivals including George Russell and Lewis Hamilton before holding Russell behind him to finish third.

Where did Lewis Hamilton finish in the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix?

Lewis Hamilton finished sixth for Ferrari. He briefly ran third after benefiting from the Safety Car and passing George Russell at the restart but later lost positions as he struggled for pace.

How long will Suzuka remain in Formula 1?

The current agreement guarantees the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka through the 2029 Formula 1 season.

Follow Ferrari at the Japanese Grand Prix

ScuderiaFans covers every Ferrari Japanese Grand Prix weekend with practice reports, qualifying analysis, race results, technical developments, tyre information, strategy assessments and reactions from Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton and the Maranello team.

Revisit our complete Ferrari coverage from the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

For the wider season, visit the Formula 1 calendar and results, driver standings and constructor standings.