Teams hit the track in Suzuka for first 2026 Japanese GP practice

Mercedes arrives at the iconic Suzuka Circuit riding a wave of momentum from back-to-back wins, while rivals Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull aim to gather crucial data in the first practice session to mount a challenge and disrupt the Silver Arrows' hot streak.

Why it matters:

Free Practice 1 sets the initial tone for the race weekend, providing teams with their first real-world data on car setup and tire performance at one of Formula 1's most demanding and unforgiving circuits. A strong start here can build confidence and create a performance baseline that is difficult for competitors to overcome.

The details:

• The session marks the return of F1 to the revered 5.8km Suzuka Circuit, a high-speed, technical track beloved by drivers for its unique figure-eight layout and flowing corners.
• Mercedes' Momentum: The German squad enters the event looking to extend its winning run after securing victories in the previous two rounds in Australia and China, establishing itself as the current team to beat.
• The Challengers: Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull are all under pressure to respond. This initial practice is their first opportunity to evaluate new parts, understand tire degradation on Suzuka's abrasive surface, and find a setup that can close the performance gap.
• No Room for Error: Suzuka's reputation for punishing mistakes means drivers and teams must balance pushing for lap time with minimizing risk, especially in this early session where track conditions are still evolving.

What's next:

The data collected in FP1 will immediately feed into preparations for the second practice session and qualifying. Teams will analyze long-run performance to understand race pace and work to optimize their aerodynamic packages for Suzuka's unique combination of high-speed corners and technical sections. A clear pecking order may begin to emerge, setting the stage for a competitive weekend.