Japanese GP: How to watch and schedule for UK viewers

The 2026 F1 season heads to the iconic Suzuka Circuit for the Japanese Grand Prix, with Mercedes aiming to extend its perfect start against a chasing Ferrari. The legendary track promises a stern test of driver skill and car performance, while Red Bull and McLaren face an uphill battle to close the early-season performance gap.

Why it matters:

Suzuka is one of F1's ultimate benchmarks, a circuit where car balance and driver commitment are paramount. A strong result here is a key indicator of a package's true potential. Furthermore, with a five-week gap until the next race following cancelled rounds, teams and drivers will be keen to head into the break with crucial momentum and championship points.

The details:

• Mercedes' Momentum: The Silver Arrows arrive with back-to-back one-two finishes. Rookie Kimi Antonelli, fresh from his maiden win in China, will look to challenge championship-leading teammate George Russell and continue his impressive debut season.
• Ferrari's Challenge: The Scuderia remains the closest challenger, seeking its first win since 2024 and its first at Suzuka since 2004. Improving on their recent third and fourth-place finishes is the immediate target.
• Red Bull & McLaren's Struggle: Reigning champions are off the pace. Max Verstappen's Suzuka dominance since 2022 faces a severe test, while McLaren is simply hoping to make the start after a double DNS (Did Not Start) in Shanghai.
• The Suzuka Factor: The famous figure-of-eight layout, with corners like the Esses, Degner, and 130R, provides one of the season's most demanding challenges, often acting as a title decider in the past.
• Viewing Schedule (UK Times):
  • Practice 1: Friday, 2:30 AM
  • Practice 2: Friday, 6:00 AM
  • Practice 3: Saturday, 2:30 AM
  • Qualifying: Saturday, 6:00 AM
  • Race: Sunday, 6:00 AM
• How to Watch: The entire weekend will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1 and Sky Sports Main Event in the UK. Viewers can also stream via the Sky Sports app or with a NOW subscription.

What's next:

All eyes will be on whether Mercedes can maintain its flawless form or if Ferrari can finally break through for a victory. For Red Bull and McLaren, the weekend is about damage limitation and understanding their packages before the long break. The Japanese Grand Prix will set the narrative for the first quarter of the 2026 season.