Japanese Grand Prix LIVE! Latest updates as Kimi Antonelli leads after Ollie Bearman crashes
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit features Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli on pole position, followed by teammate George Russell, with Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc close behind.
- Max Verstappen starts 11th after a Q2 exit, feeling "beyond frustrated," despite having won the last four Japanese Grands Prix from 2022 to 2025.
- Mercedes aims for their third consecutive win of the season with front-row starters, building on Antonelli's record-breaking performance in Japan last year as the youngest driver to set a fastest lap and lead a race.
- Suzuka Circuit is a challenging 18-turn, figure-of-eight track, known for its demanding "Esses" section and iconic corners Spoon and 130R, making it a fan favorite and a tough test for drivers.
- ESPN provides full coverage of the race, allowing fans to follow all the action live.
