F1 NEWS: official Japanese Grand Prix started grid with penalties applied After…read more.
Official Japanese Grand Prix started grid with penalties applied After…read more.
The 2025 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix is in full swing at the iconic Suzuka Circuit, where grid penalties dramatically altered the starting order following Saturday’s qualifying. With the race now underway, fans are already witnessing an intense and unpredictable battle.
Charles Leclerc had originally taken pole position for Ferrari, but a three-place grid penalty for blocking another car in Q2 dropped him to fourth. That promoted Max Verstappen to the front of the grid, with Mercedes’ George Russell starting alongside him.
Lewis Hamilton, now racing in red for Ferrari, began from third and quickly joined the lead fight in the opening laps. McLaren’s Lando Norris gained a spot to start fifth and is staying in close range of the front runners, while Sergio Pérez held onto his sixth-place start and is maintaining steady pace.
Several drivers were forced to start further back due to component changes. Fernando Alonso, penalized for an engine change, began 14th but is already climbing the order. Esteban Ocon, who took a full power unit penalty, launched from the back and is chasing points.
Early race action has delivered tight battles, bold overtakes, and high strategy. With the grandstands packed and weather remaining stable for now, the stage is set for a thrilling contest as the laps unfold. All eyes remain on Verstappen up front, but the real story may come from those making moves through the midfield.
