2024-04-14 09:21:44
The program for the fourth round of the Formula 1 World Championship for the 2024 season – the Japanese Grand Prix – starts on Friday at the Suzuka Circuit with two free practices.
As Day.Az reports with reference to TASS, at the last stage in Australia something unexpected happened – three-time world champion Dutchman Max Verstappen was unable to complete the race for the first time in two years. The reason for this was problems with the brakes on the Red Bull car. Nevertheless, victories in the first two Grand Prix were enough for him to maintain his lead in the individual competition. In Japan, the weather may interfere with Verstappen’s dominance – rain is expected throughout the weekend.
The configuration of the Suzuka track is unique – it has a peculiar figure-eight shape (a bridge is used to cross) and is the only one of its kind in the championship. The track was opened in 1961, and it has hosted the Formula 1 Grand Prix since 1987. The stage was not held in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Over the years of its existence, the circuit has been reconstructed four times. After the serious accident of Scotsman Alan McNish in 2002, one of the most famous corners in the Formula 1 calendar (130R), which drivers pass at a speed of 300 km/h, was slightly rebuilt. Otherwise, the track has undergone only cosmetic repairs.
The record holder for the number of victories in Japan is the seven-time world champion German Michael Schumacher, who climbed to the highest step of the podium six times. Of the current drivers, Briton Lewis Hamilton won here five times, Spaniard Fernando Alonso and Verstappen twice each, and Finn Valtteri Bottas once.
The first part of the free races will begin at 06:30 Baku time, the second – at 10:00. The third free practice (06:30) and qualification (10:00) will take place on Saturday. The stage program will end on Sunday with the race (09:00).
Subscribe to our WhatsApp channel and stay up to date with the main news!