Verstappen wins Japanese GP at Suzuka

Suzuka

Max Verstappen claimed his first win of the 2025 Formula 1 season with a strong drive at the Japanese Grand Prix. The Dutch driver held off McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to take victory at Suzuka for the fourth time in a row.

This win brings Verstappen just one point behind Norris in the overall championship. Piastri now moves to third place, ahead of George Russell.

Verstappen started from pole and stayed ahead despite pressure from both McLarens. He said the team worked hard all weekend to improve the car, and the win was special because it was Honda’s last home race.

Norris tried to catch Verstappen but couldn’t get close enough. He finished second, with Piastri third on his 24th birthday. Norris praised Verstappen for a clean race and admitted McLaren didn’t have enough speed to challenge him.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finished fourth. Mercedes drivers George Russell and young Kimi Antonelli followed in fifth and sixth. Antonelli led briefly during the pit stop phase thanks to a long first stint.

Lewis Hamilton ended in seventh for Ferrari. Rookie Isack Hadjar scored his first points of the season with an eighth-place finish for Racing Bulls. Alex Albon took ninth for Williams, while Ollie Bearman secured the final point for Haas in tenth.

The Japanese Grand Prix was a fast-paced race with tight battles throughout. Verstappen’s win has shaken up the standings and adds excitement to the season ahead.