Suzuka; Oscar Plastri; F1 results, program, time, tickets, map, track; Formula 1; McLaren; Ferrari; Max Verstappen; Lando Norris; Lewis Hamilton

The McLarens set the rhythm in the early stages of the season and did it again through each of the three practice sessions in Suzuka until Max Verstappen intervened.

Red Bull’s star has set up a new Suzuka Rop record to become the fourth pole sitter from four qualifying sessions (the others are Lando Norris in Australia, Lewis Hamilton for the sprint race in China and Oscar Piatti for the Chinese Grand Prix).

Verstappen has set up an absurd 1: 26,983 to set the fastest time in the story of Suzuka – No petty feat, given how quickly this track is truly and how exactly was not electrified by its Red Bull for the whole practice.

He also continued the love relationship of the Dutch with the famous Japanese circuit. Incredibly, it was not beaten neither in the race nor in a qualification in Suzuka since 2019.

“If you look at how our season started – even during this weekend, yes, it is very unexpected,” said Verstappen of his qualified performance.

“And I think it probably makes it very special.

“It’s crazy.”

Norris also went on 1: 27,000 to claim the other front row position of this year, with herds just behind with a 1: 27.027.

“I felt good for most of the qualifications, especially at the beginning of the second quarter,” said the Australian star of the Broadcasters.

“The last tour did not join as I wanted.

“But (these are) incredibly tight margins, so yes, I think it’s all to play.

“Max obviously did an excellent job to end up with pole, but I think we still have a fantastic car for tomorrow and still fighting for victory.”

With aap, ap