2026 F1 Japanese GP | FP1 results

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FP1 at the 2026 F1 Japanese GP saw George Russell led the timings, followed by teammate Kimi Antonelli and Lando Norris, with the full results of the session here.

The 2026 Formula 1 Japanese GP weekend got underway at Suzuka with the opening practice session, as teams began their preparations in a full three-session format. The championship arrived in Japan for Round 3 of the season following a dramatic race in Shanghai. Kimi Antonelli took his maiden Formula 1 victory from pole, leading a Mercedes 1–2 ahead of George Russell. Lewis Hamilton completed the podium, securing his first Grand Prix top three with Ferrari.

Mercedes have set the early benchmark in 2026. Antonelli’s win in China only reinforced their control, while Russell continues to lead the championship heading into Suzuka. The challenge in Japan is very different. Suzuka’s fast, flowing layout demands precision and confidence from the first lap. With more practice time available, FP1 allowed teams to begin refining setups and understanding tyre behaviour on a technical circuit.

There are also storylines further down the grid. McLaren will look to recover after both cars failed to start in China due to technical issues. Max Verstappen, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back after his retirement last time out. FP1 at the Japanese GP also featured the first rookie appearance of the season as Jak Crawford took part for Aston Martin climbing in the car from Fernando Alonso.

Elsewhere, drivers like Oscar Piastri and Isack Hadjar are chasing cleaner weekends, while teams such as Williams, Aston Martin and Cadillac continue their push to get points on the board. With evolving conditions and little margin for error, FP1 offered an early read on the pecking order for the Japanese Grand Prix weekend.