Max Verstappen delivered a commanding performance at the Japanese Grand Prix on April 6, 2025, securing his first win of the season and a fourth consecutive victory at the iconic Suzuka Circuit.
The reigning World Champion fended off a fierce challenge from McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to claim his 64th career Grand Prix triumph.
Starting from pole, Verstappen surged ahead early, maintaining a solid lead over the McLaren duo through the opening laps. Tension flared during the pit stop window when a slightly sluggish stop for Verstappen allowed Norris, who pitted on the same lap, to attempt a daring side-by-side move at the pit exit. Norris was forced onto the grass but couldn’t overtake, leaving Verstappen in the lead. Both drivers expressed frustration over the radio, though the stewards declined to investigate the incident.
As the race unfolded, Verstappen rebuilt his advantage over Norris. However, the final 10 laps saw drama intensify as Piastri closed in on his teammate, prompting Norris to push harder and erode Verstappen’s lead. Despite the late charge, Verstappen held firm, crossing the finish line ahead of Norris, with Piastri completing the podium.
Local favorite Yuki Tsunoda, making his Red Bull debut, finished a disappointing 12th, missing out on points but earning the Driver of the Day award from fans. Pierre Gasly, Tsunoda’s former teammate, took 13th for Alpine, followed by Williams’ Carlos Sainz in 14th and Alpine’s Jack Doohan in 15th. Nico Hulkenberg (Kick Sauber), Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls), Esteban Ocon (Haas), Gabriel Bortoleto (Kick Sauber), and Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) rounded out the field in 16th through 20th, respectively.
Verstappen’s victory tightens the championship race, bringing him within one point of standings leader Norris. Piastri’s podium finish vaults him to third, overtaking George Russell.
The season continues with a triple-header, as Formula 1 heads to Sakhir for the Bahrain Grand Prix, set for April 11-13.