Max Verstappen starts on pole for the Japanese Grand Prix after a dominant performance in qualifying at Suzuka. The Dutchman and teammate could clinch the Constructors' standings with a positive result at the home of engine technical partner Honda after a sublime performance all year. But what role will the weather play on race day?

Rain could impact weekend

Unlike the torrential rain of last season, the weather is set fair with sunshine and a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, with the higher-than-normal heat for the venue - given the event takes place earlier than in previous campaigns - set to play havoc with race strategies. The chance of rain is set at 10 per cent, with the wind speed likely to reach highs of four miles per hour, though gusts may surpass this mark.

Most read

Daniel Ricciardo confirms paddock return: 'It's going to really hit me hard'

Charles Leclerc makes eye-watering multi-million dollar purchase

Romain Grosjean joke triggers tense confrontation: 'He fancied a bit of a fist fight'

McLaren identify key F1 deficit to Mercedes

Laurent Mekies pinpoints 'big indication' of Red Bull F1 recovery

Lewis Hamilton reveals F1 demand after 'painful' experience

2026 WEC Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps - results

Oscar Piastri voices surprise at latest Red Bull development

Throwback

Three of F1 greatest heroes share podium for first and only time

Max Verstappen told to ignore Mercedes: 'Ferrari a more comfortable fit'

Never miss a thing from the Formula 1 season! Add the 2026 F1 schedule to your calendar at the touch of a button. Subscribe below and put the dates and times of every race directly on your PC or smartphone, so you don't miss a second from the new season.

Download the F1 calendar Download the F1 calendar

A variant with just the race and qualifying is also available.
Click here to download it..