Max Verstappen triumphs with authority at the Japanese Grand Prix
In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Max Verstappen clinched victory at the Japanese Grand Prix. From the moment the race commenced on a sun-drenched day in central Japan, Verstappen asserted his dominance, maintaining a commanding lead throughout.
SUZUKA, Japan (AP) — Max Verstappen reaffirmed his unparalleled supremacy in Formula 1 with a record-breaking win at the Japanese Grand Prix, steering ahead for the majority of the race under the radiant Japanese sky.
Just a fortnight after his abrupt setback in Melbourne, Australia, where a rear brake malfunction forced him out on the fourth lap, Verstappen showcased his unyielding control over F1, leaving behind any traces of doubt.
This time around, there were no such mishaps.
Verstappen led the pack virtually from the starting line, relinquishing his position only briefly after a pit stop. His Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez trailed behind, crossing the finish line 12.5 seconds later, followed by Carlos Sainz of Ferrari, who finished a further 20 seconds adrift.
The reigning three-time F1 champion once again reigns atop this season’s leaderboard, with an impressive record of 22 wins out of the last 26 races since the inception of the 2023 season. Only two other drivers have managed victories within this period—Verstappen’s Red Bull teammate Perez and Sainz, who claimed victory in Australia a mere two weeks ago.
In response to inquiries, Sainz hinted at the possibility that Verstappen and Red Bull’s dominance could potentially render the season a foregone conclusion after just four out of 24 races.
“I believe they are likely to maintain an advantage throughout the initial phase of the season, until we introduce one or two upgrades,” remarked Sainz. “However, by that juncture, it might be too late to challenge their lead in the championship.”
Verstappen, however, remained cautiously optimistic about the remainder of the season, suggesting that Red Bull might face challenges in street circuits.
“It’s still a long season ahead,” he remarked. “I prefer not to dwell too much on what lies ahead.”
The race witnessed a red flag mere seconds into the tightly contested first lap, following a collision between Alex Albon and Daniel Ricciardo at the second turn, resulting in their subsequent exit from the race.
Yet, this proved to be the sole instance of real drama.
“The crucial moment was securing the lead at the start, and from thereon, the performance of the car only improved,” Verstappen reflected later. “It couldn’t have gone any better.”
Both Albon and Ricciardo emerged unscathed, with no reported serious injuries. The race restart was delayed by 30 minutes to facilitate the removal of debris and clear the track.
Verstappen, now boasting 57 career wins, extended his season points tally to 77, holding a comfortable 13-point lead over Perez on 64. Charles Leclerc of Ferrari follows closely with 59 points, while Sainz trails with 55.
“It’s immensely gratifying to emerge victorious, especially here in Japan,” Verstappen expressed, acknowledging the significance of the race at Suzuka, where his Honda-powered car triumphed. “This race holds special significance for us, and winning here is truly remarkable.”
Reflecting on his previous setback in Melbourne, Verstappen remarked, “Melbourne felt like a minor setback. However, today’s performance reflects our aspirations and objectives for every race weekend.”
Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda, representing the RB team, secured a respectable 10th position, earning a valuable point.
The upcoming race is the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai in two weeks’ time. F1 has not graced the circuit since 2019, with four races canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, an F1 sprint race is slated to precede the GP in China, thereby reducing practice time on an unfamiliar track.
“It’s bound to be quite hectic,” Verstappen acknowledged. “Given our prolonged absence from the track, with only one practice session, it will certainly be an intriguing challenge.”
While Verstappen, Perez, and Sainz expressed reservations about the sprint race’s impact on practice time, they conceded that it might enhance the weekend’s entertainment value for fans and stimulate interest and revenue.
“I’m not entirely convinced,” Verstappen confessed. “When you’ve been away from a track for such a long time, you can never anticipate the challenges you might encounter. A conventional race weekend would have been preferable.”
Sainz concurred, stating, “I don’t believe it’s a prudent decision to introduce the sprint race after a hiatus of four or five years. Moreover, we’ve heard reports of ongoing resurfacing efforts.”
The Japanese Grand Prix coincided with the cherry blossom season across the Japanese archipelago. The Suzuka circuit, constructed by Honda and still managed by the Japanese automotive giant, is located southwest of Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city, amidst a hub of industrial activity.
Dispelling rumors of a potential departure from Red Bull, Verstappen asserted his contentment with his current team.
“I’m thoroughly content where I am,” he affirmed. “We aim to maintain this status quo.” He even hinted at the prospect of an early retirement.
“My contract with Red Bull extends until ’28,” he disclosed. “Beyond that, I’ll first assess whether I incline to continue. That’s my foremost consideration.”