Verstappen Leads in Suzuka, Eyeing Steady Pace

Max Verstappen tops FP1 at the Japanese Grand Prix, cautiously optimistic amid unpredictable weather and tight competition.

Max Verstappen set the fastest time in the first free practice session of the Japanese F1 Grand Prix at Suzuka this Friday. The double defending champion of the event stayed in his garage during the rainy FP2, thus remaining cautious for the rest of the weekend.

“It was a good start for us, the balance wasn’t bad, and it’s a good way to kick things off,” Verstappen stated. “But it seems like everyone is closer, and in FP2, we couldn’t really test much. But things went well, and I’m pleased with FP1.”

“There are a few minor things to look into, but overall, I’m happy with what I had, and normally, it should be a good track for us. On a single lap, the others have closed in, but I have no idea what it will look like on long runs, even though I don’t expect the gaps to be similar to last year.”

His teammate, Sergio Pérez, helped secure a one-two for the team in FP1 and also followed a cautious program during the afternoon session: “FP1 was a good session, I was happy with the car, and it was in a good window.”

“We made some changes for FP2 but couldn’t test them, but yes, I think we did the most we could in FP1. We are in the same boat as those around us and are waiting for tomorrow to get a better idea.”

“We are confident, the car is performing well. On long runs, we haven’t done anything so far, so as I said, FP3 tomorrow will be busy in preparation for the qualifying session.”