2026 Japanese GP qualifying start time
Max Verstappen has claimed every Japanese Grand Prix pole position since F1 returned to Suzuka in 2022, but faces an almighty challenge to maintain his record in 2026.
After practice on Friday, the Red Bull was languishing in 10th place, over 1.3s down on the pace, set by McLaren's Oscar Piastri.
McLaren appeared to be Mercedes' closest challengers ahead of Ferrari, but who will roar to pole at Suzuka?
Qualifying for the 2026 F1 Japanese Grand Prix starts at 15:00 local time on Saturday, March 30th, or 06:00 UK time.
Check out that start time below, with the times automaticaly adjusted to your timezone!
F1 schedule Japanese GP
| Session | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Free practice 1 | Friday 27 March | - |
| Free practice 2 | Friday 27 March | - |
| Free practice 3 | Saturday 28 March | - |
| Qualifying | Saturday 28 March | - |
| Race | Sunday 29 March | - |
Also interesting:
Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes, Sam Coop and Nick Golding as they look ahead to this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix. Jonathan Wheatley's Audi exit is a key talking point, as is whether Max Verstappen's critical comments are damaging F1.
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