Max Verstappen Triumphs in Japan Ahead of McLaren Duo

When Max Verstappen has victory within his grasp, he doesn't let it slip away. Pole position and a win for the Red Bull driver, who returns to the top of the podium this season after missing out in the first two battles. Neither Norris nor Piastri could challenge the Dutchman over the 53 laps of this Japanese Grand Prix.

The battle was between the McLarens, but amongst themselves. Australian Oscar Piastri requested to pass from the pit wall, but ultimately did not overtake Lando Norris, who saw the chequered flag in second place, allowing him to maintain his lead in the Formula 1 World Championship by just one point over Verstappen.

In a race with few overtakes, the Spanish drivers couldn't secure any points. Fernando Alonso, with his Aston Martin, managed to finish his first race this year, ending in eleventh place, just three seconds shy of the points. Carlos Sainz finished fourteenth at the wheel of his Williams.