Chaos at Suzuka: Leclerc and Norris shine in dramatic F1 opener
The Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka delivered a dramatic opening lap as drivers battled for position. Charles Leclerc made a strong recovery, while Lando Norris surged ahead of both Mercedes cars. The race marked the third event of the 2026 Formula 1 season, with Ferrari still trailing Mercedes in early performances. At the start, Kimi Antonelli held fourth place, while George Russell sat fifth. But Norris quickly overtook both Mercedes drivers, securing third position. Leclerc, who began in fourth, climbed to second by the end of the lap.
Further down the field, Max Verstappen moved past Isack Hadjar to claim ninth. Pierre Gasly finished seventh, with Lewis Hamilton holding sixth throughout. Lindblad crossed the line in eighth, rounding out the top ten.
Leclerc's rise to second place was the standout move of the lap. Norris also gained ground, pushing past Antonelli and Russell. The results set the stage for a competitive race, with Mercedes and Ferrari locked in a tight battle.
