The Formula 1 paddock is buzzing with anticipation as teams prepare for qualifying at the iconic Suzuka Circuit. For fans eager to watch Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz battle for position, knowing when and where to tune in is key. However, early practice sessions have revealed underlying challenges for several teams, particularly concerning energy deployment and reliability, casting a shadow over the potential for a truly competitive weekend.
Suzuka holds a special place in Formula 1 history, renowned for its demanding layout and thrilling races. It’s a track where legendary overtakes, like Fernando Alonso’s masterful pass on Michael Schumacher in 2005, develop into etched in motorsport lore. The circuit’s blend of high-speed corners and long straights demands both aerodynamic efficiency and engine power, making it a true test of both driver skill and engineering prowess. This year, however, the initial practice sessions suggest a different story, with cars appearing to hold back, unable to fully unleash their potential.
Honda, competing on its home soil, is facing significant hurdles. Despite minor adjustments to the floor and front wing, the team continues to grapple with reliability issues and persistent vibrations. While a major overhaul isn’t expected before the race, Aston Martin, powered by Honda, is simply aiming to see the checkered flag. Onboard footage from Fernando Alonso’s car during a practice start revealed the extent of the vibrations, a worrying sign for the team’s race prospects. The issues are particularly acute on the long straights, where drivers are noticeably lifting and coasting, a far cry from the flat-out speeds fans expect.
Los mecánicos de Aston Martin durante el inicio del GP de Japón.
McLaren, however, appears to have found a more positive rhythm. Oscar Piastri topped the timesheets in FP2, a promising sign after a difficult Grand Prix in China. His teammate, Lando Norris, overcame a 30-minute delay due to a mechanical issue to finish fourth, further bolstering the team’s confidence. Ferrari, meanwhile, struggled to uncover pace, finishing behind McLaren in the practice sessions.
Piastri, mejor tiempo en los Libres 2 del GP de Japón.
Williams is as well showing promise, with Carlos Sainz continuing to extract the maximum from his car despite ongoing weight concerns. The battle for supremacy in the midfield is particularly tight, with Williams, Aston Martin, and Racing Bulls separated by just a tenth of a second. This suggests a closely contested qualifying session, and race.
How to Watch the Japanese Grand Prix
Fans can follow all the action from the Suzuka Circuit, including practice, qualifying, and the race, on MARCA.com and RadioMARCA. Television coverage of the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix will be broadcast on DAZN and is also available on Movistar+.
Schedule for the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix
Saturday, March 28:
- Free Practice 3: 3:30 AM (local time)
- Qualifying: 7:00 AM (local time)
Sunday, March 29:
- Race: 7:00 AM (local time) (53 laps)
As teams prepare for qualifying, the focus will be on maximizing performance while addressing the underlying issues that plagued the practice sessions. The outcome of qualifying will be crucial, setting the stage for what promises to be a captivating Japanese Grand Prix. The next key moment will be qualifying, scheduled for Saturday morning, where the grid for Sunday’s race will be determined.
What are your predictions for qualifying? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow Formula 1 fans.
