Japanese GP FP1 results: Mercedes leads tight field as Ferrari trails McLaren. George Russell leads FP1 at Suzuka ahead of Kimi Antonelli.

FP1 classification for the 2026 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix

Here is the full classification at the end of FP1 for the 2026 F1 Japanese Grand Prix:

*Jak Crawford replaced Aston Martin’s regular driver Fernando Alonso for FP1 only.

FP1 session report from Suzuka

George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, regardless of the slightly unstable front wing, picked up right where they left off two weeks ago in China. Even in the opening free practice session of the Japanese Grand Prix weekend at Suzuka, the two Mercedes drivers topped the timesheets, although within a fairly balanced field. As always, FP1 results and lap times should be taken with caution.

Behind the Silver Arrows were the McLarens, with Lando Norris losing the first half of the session due to a technical issue before recovering to take third place late on. The British driver finished 0.132 seconds off the top, also benefiting from improved track conditions and better tyre performance during his qualifying simulation. Fourth place went to Oscar Piastri, who enjoyed a smoother session overall and remained within two tenths of Russell’s benchmark.

The two Ferrari cars were slightly further back, although still the only other team within half a second of the lead. Charles Leclerc ended the session in fifth place at +0.289, while Lewis Hamilton followed in sixth at +0.374, both on Soft tyres. It is worth noting that the Monegasque driver made a few mistakes during his initial attempts on the red-banded Pirelli tyres, only managing to complete a clean lap on his third push, by which time the tyres were no longer at their peak performance.

Only seventh place for Max Verstappen, who was almost eight tenths off the pace. It was not a representative performance from the Red Bull driver, but it highlights the tight competition at the front of the field.

Two incidents without major consequences involving Alexander Albon should also be noted. The Williams driver first clipped the barriers with his rear-left tyre at Turn 9, and shortly afterwards made contact with Sergio Perez’s Cadillac at the final chicane. Attempting an overtake, Albon arrived slightly too late and ended up spinning.

Live coverage and FP1 classification

You can relive all the action from the first free practice session in Japan through our live commentary coverage, featuring real-time updates and analysis from Suzuka.

Weekend schedule

Formula 1 returns to the track early in the European morning, with FP2 scheduled for 07:00 CET. This session will be particularly important in providing a clearer picture of the competitive order, especially with the traditional long-run simulations.

On Saturday, March 28, 2026, FP3 will take place at 03:30 CET, followed by qualifying at 07:00 CET.

Finally, on Sunday, March 29, it will be time for another early wake-up call, as the Japanese Grand Prix—the third round of the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship—gets underway at 07:00 CET. Fans should also remember that clocks will move forward overnight due to the switch to daylight saving time. Full weekend timings are available for reference.