The Formula 1 season continues to build toward its climax as Max Verstappen of Red Bull remains a dominant force on the track. The Dutch driver has been showcased as a top contender in the latest race, pushing hard for pole position and aiming to secure another championship title. Behind Verstappen, Carlos Sainz from Ferrari and Fernando Alonso from Alpine have both shown flashes of strength, with Sainz sitting in a strong second place and Alonso staying within reach of the podium in the latest standings. The battle for the top spot in the drivers’ championship remains intense, with Verstappen holding a comfortable points lead that underscores his current form and consistency across the campaign.
Verstappen sealed a crucial lead in the standings after narrowly beating Charles Leclerc of Ferrari by a mere fraction of a second, a reminder of how closely fought this season has been. With a substantial cushion over Leclerc, the defending world champion only needs a win combined with the fastest lap bonus in Suzuka to clinch the title again, though the path to that outcome depends on the outcomes of remaining races and the performance of his rivals. The ongoing contest has kept fans on edge as teams fine tune setups and strategies to maximize performance in the demanding races ahead.
Still under scrutiny is an incident from the third quarter when Verstappen was attempting to warm up the tires as the car’s grip evolved on track. An unintended movement by the car caused a momentary off-road moment, forcing fellow driver Lando Norris of McLaren to take evasive action to avoid a collision. Race officials are reviewing the footage to determine whether any penalties are warranted. The incident has added a layer of drama to a season already defined by tactical decisions and careful risk management from all teams involved.
Sainz is projected to share second place in the standings with Sergio Perez of Red Bull, who captured a victory in Singapore and demonstrated strong pace throughout the season. Despite a confidence-building performance by Perez, he remained slightly behind his teammate in qualifying, ready to push for a robust finish and more championship points as the calendar moves forward. He will start from a favorable position, aiming to challenge for podium status as the teams head into the next rounds.
Esteban Ocon from Alpine and Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes are positioned to begin from the upper midfield, with Ocon tucked just ahead of Fernando Alonso and teammate Fernando Alonso expected to capitalize on opportunities as the race unfolds. Hamilton, a veteran presence in the series, remains a constant threat for top results, bringing experience and a strategic approach to every Grand Prix. George Russell from Mercedes also aims to stay in the mix as the season advances, contributing to a highly competitive field that keeps the title race open for multiple contenders.
Where to watch Formula 1 races
For fans who cannot attend in person, the excitement of the season travels into living rooms and screens everywhere. Broadcasters continue to deliver the action across major platforms, with popular arrangements across regions ensuring fans do not miss key moments. In addition to traditional television coverage, live streaming options provide accessibility for viewers who prefer online viewing. Internationally, the broadcast partners ensure a consistent feed of practice, qualifying, and race sessions so followers can stay connected to the action as it unfolds. Technical analyses and expert commentary accompany the race coverage, helping viewers understand tire strategies, pit stops, and the evolving weather conditions that influence outcomes.
For those without access to exclusive networks, live streaming options remain a reliable alternative, offering real-time race coverage and on-demand replays to keep up with every twist and turn of the season. Fans can follow the action from practice sessions through the final laps, with ongoing updates and highlight reels available from the official event channels and major sports networks that hold broadcasting rights.
F1 Japanese GP race schedule
Sunday, October 9
07:00 Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit