Japan Grand Prix 2025: Suzuka Set to Host Round Three
Formula 1 is heading to the legendary Suzuka Circuit for the Japanese Grand Prix, which is the third round of the 2025 season, taking place over the weekend of 4-6 April. This iconic circuit has been a regular feature on the F1 calendar since 1986, with a short period where the Fuji Speedway also hosted the race.
When to Watch (BST):
For fans in the UK, the sessions from Suzuka will happen in the early hours:
Free Practice 1 (FP1): Friday 4 April, 04:30 – 05:30
Free Practice 2 (FP2): Friday 4 April, 08:00 – 09:00
Free Practice 3 (FP3): Saturday 5 April, 04:30 – 05:30
Qualifying: Saturday 5 April, 08:00 – 09:00
Race: Sunday 6 April, 07:00 – 09:00
How to Follow the Action:
In the United Kingdom, the Japanese Grand Prix will be shown live on Sky Sports. Sky Sports subscribers can also watch all the action on the Sky Go app. For those without a Sky subscription, a NOWTV Day Pass provides access to the coverage. In the United States, the race will be broadcast live on ESPN. Live updates will also be available on RacingNews365’s live blog.
The Thrill of Suzuka:
The Suzuka Circuit, owned by Honda and designed by John Hugenholtz, is famous for its challenging figure-eight layout that is much loved by both drivers and fans. The track is known for being high-speed, featuring famous sections like the ‘S’ Curves, the 130R corner, and the Degner Curve, as well as its unique crossover. These features demand a lot from the drivers, often leading to exciting racing. The circuit is 5.807 kilometres in length, and the race will be run over 53 laps. The fastest lap record is 1:30.983, set in 2019.
A Rich History of Racing:
The Japanese Grand Prix has a long and fascinating history, with the first Formula 1 race taking place in 1976 at the Fuji Speedway. That first race was a dramatic decider for the championship between James Hunt and Niki Lauda, with Hunt ultimately winning the title. Since 1987, the Suzuka Circuit has been the primary venue for the Japanese Grand Prix. Traditionally held towards the end of the season, it has been the location where 13 World Championships have been decided.
Suzuka has witnessed many memorable moments, including the intense rivalry between McLaren teammates Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna in the late 1980s and early 1990s, which included several championship-deciding incidents. Other notable events include Michael Schumacher clinching his third title in 2000, ending Ferrari’s long wait for a championship, and Kimi Raikkonen’s remarkable victory from 17th on the grid in 2005. Sadly, the 2014 race was overshadowed by the serious accident involving Jules Bianchi.
Current Standings and Potential Highlights:
Going into the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, Lando Norris of McLaren is leading the drivers’ championship with 44 points, ahead of Max Verstappen (36) and George Russell (35). McLaren also holds the lead in the constructors’ standings. It has been noted that Oscar Piastri won the previous race in China and will be looking to challenge his McLaren teammate Norris.
A key storyline for this race weekend is Yuki Tsunoda making his debut for Red Bull at his home grand prix, replacing Liam Lawson. It will be interesting to see how the Japanese driver performs in his new car in front of his home fans. Additionally, Ferrari will be aiming to recover after both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc were disqualified from the Chinese Grand Prix due to technical infringements.
Most Successful Drivers and Teams:
Michael Schumacher has the most wins at the Japanese Grand Prix with six victories, followed by Lewis Hamilton with five, and Sebastian Vettel with four. Among the constructors, McLaren has the most wins with nine, followed by Ferrari with seven and Mercedes with six.
With a challenging circuit, passionate supporters, and several interesting storylines developing early in the 2025 season, the Japanese Grand Prix looks set to be a thrilling event. Make sure you don’t miss any of the action from Suzuka!
Frequently Asked Questions: F1 Japanese Grand Prix 2025
When is the F1 Japanese Grand Prix taking place? The F1 Japan Grand Prix in 2025 is scheduled for the weekend of 4-6 April1.
Where is the race held?Â
The race takes place at the Suzuka Circuit
What is the race date and start time (BST)?Â
The race is on Sunday, 6 April and the start time is 07:00 BST
What is the schedule for the practice and qualifying sessions (BST)?
Free Practice 1 (FP1):Â Friday 4 April, 04:30 – 05:30
Free Practice 2 (FP2):Â Friday 4 April, 08:00 – 09:00
Free Practice 3 (FP3):Â Saturday 5 April, 04:30 – 05:30
Qualifying:Â Saturday 5 April, 08:00 – 09:00
How can I watch the Japanese Grand Prix in the UK?Â
The race will be broadcast live on Sky Sports9. Sky Sports subscribers can also watch via the Sky Go app. Non-subscribers can purchase a NOWTV Day Pass to watch without a subscription
How can I watch the Japanese Grand Prix in the USA?Â
The race will be shown live on ESPN
What is special about the Suzuka Circuit?Â
The Suzuka Circuit is a legendary3 and iconic4 venue known for its challenging and popular figure-eight layout5. It features famous sections like the ‘S’ Curves, the 130R corner, and the Degner Curve, as well as its famous crossover4. It is a high-speed track that is much loved by drivers and fans
How long is the Suzuka Circuit?Â
The circuit length is 5.807 kilometres
How many laps is the Japanese Grand Prix?Â
The race is 53 laps long
What is the lap record at Suzuka?Â
The lap record is 1:30.983, set in 2019
When was the first F1 Japanese Grand Prix held?Â
The first F1 Japanese Grand Prix was in 1976 at the Fuji Speedway
How many times has the Japanese Grand Prix been held at Suzuka? The race has been held at the Suzuka Circuit since 1987, with a period where Fuji also hosted the event
Has the Japanese Grand Prix been the location for World Championship deciders? Yes, the Japanese Grand Prix has historically been held towards the end of the season and has seen 13 World Champions crowned at the venue4. It has been the stage for many dramatic title battles
Who won the Japanese Grand Prix in 2024?Â
Max Verstappen won the race in 2024
Who are some of the most successful drivers at the Japanese Grand Prix?Â
Michael Schumacher has the most wins with six, followed by Lewis Hamilton with five, and Sebastian Vettel with four
Which constructor has the most wins at the Japanese Grand Prix?Â
McLaren has the most wins with nine, followed by Ferrari with seven, and Mercedes with six
What are some of the current storylines heading into the 2025 race?Â
Yuki Tsunoda is making his debut for Red Bull at his home event Ferrari will be looking to bounce back after disqualifications in the previous race Lando Norris of McLaren leads the driver standings and McLaren leads the constructor standings Oscar Piastri is looking to challenge his McLaren teammate after winning the last race
Current Driver Standings
| Rank | Driver | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 44 |
| 2 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing | 36 |
| 3 | George Russell | Mercedes | 35 |
| 4 | Oscar Piastri | McLaren | 34 |
| 5 | Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes | 22 |
| 6 | Alexander Albon | Williams | 16 |
| 7 | Esteban Ocon | Haas | 10 |
| 8 | Lance Stroll | Aston Martin | 10 |
| 9 | Lewis Hamilton | Ferrari | 9 |
| 10 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 8 |
