Japanese Grand Prix braces for rain as Verstappen eyes fifth Suzuka win
The Japanese Grand Prix returns this weekend with a familiar format and unpredictable weather. Fans can expect three free practice sessions before qualifying and the main race. However, forecasts suggest rain could play a role in shaping the event.
The weekend kicks off on Friday under overcast skies. Temperatures will hover around 17°C (63°F), with only a 7% chance of rain. This should allow teams to focus on dry-weather setups during the first two practice sessions.
Saturday brings the most challenging conditions, with showers likely in the afternoon. Temperatures will climb slightly to 18°C (64°F), but wet track conditions could disrupt qualifying. Teams may need to adjust strategies quickly if rain arrives as predicted.
The race itself takes place on Sunday under partly cloudy skies. Temperatures will again peak at 18°C (64°F), with just a 10% chance of rain. These drier conditions could favour drivers who perform well in cooler, stable weather.
Max Verstappen enters the event as the clear favourite. He has dominated Suzuka in recent years, winning the last four Japanese Grands Prix. The last non-Verstappen winner was Valtteri Bottas in 2019, highlighting the Dutch driver's recent stranglehold on the track.
The Japanese Grand Prix will follow the usual F1 weekend structure, but Saturday's rain could shake up qualifying. If Verstappen secures another victory, he will extend his unbeaten streak at Suzuka to five years. The forecast suggests teams must prepare for both wet and dry conditions across the three days.
