Max Verstappen returned to winning form with a commanding performance at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, marking his first victory of the 2025 Formula 1 season. This triumph also secured his fourth consecutive win at this iconic circuit.
Starting from pole position, Verstappen faced intense pressure from McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri throughout the race. Despite McLaren’s recent dominance in the early season, Verstappen’s skilful driving and strategic acumen enabled him to maintain his lead and clinch the win.
This victory is particularly significant for Red Bull, as it follows a period of challenges with their RB21 car’s performance. Team principal Christian Horner praised Verstappen’s drive as one of his best, highlighting the team’s efforts to refine the car’s setup.
The win propels Verstappen to just one point behind Norris in the drivers’ championship standings after three races. However, Red Bull still trails McLaren by 50 points in the constructors’ championship, underscoring the competitive nature of this season.
In other notable performances, Mercedes’ young driver Kimi Antonelli made history by becoming the youngest ever to lead a race and set the fastest lap, finishing sixth. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton ended the race in seventh place, expressing optimism about upcoming car upgrades aimed at addressing current performance issues.
