The Japanese Grand Prix promises to be an interesting battle between Max Verstappen and the duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. While the rain could cause disruptions, the Dutch driver will have to defend his position against the two McLarens, which have shown great form throughout the weekend.
Norris eager to resume the duel
Lando Norris, qualified in second position, says he is eager to meet Verstappen on the track. The two drivers have delivered several memorable duels in 2024, and the Briton seems ready to renew the experience: “I’m looking forward to battling with Max. We had quite a few [duels] last year, and I’m ready for more tomorrow,” the Briton said after the qualifying on Saturday.
The championship leader (44 points) seems ready and determined to challenge Verstappen on the Japanese track: « We want to overtake Max, he will defend, but it wouldn’t be the first time we’ve fought, so I can’t wait to be there », he stated confidently.
Piastri: aiming for the top step
Oscar Piastri, celebrating his 24th birthday this Sunday, completes the McLaren threat from the third position on the grid. The young Australian, winner of the Chinese Grand Prix, acknowledges Verstappen’s unexpected performance while keeping his sights set on his victory goal: « I think he clearly did a very good job. It was unexpected, I believe, for both us and him. I tip my hat. It’s a great performance, but I think we’ll still have opportunities to get back in front. That’s what I’m going to focus on: seeing what the weather does and ensuring some front positions are exchanged. »
Verstappen: Announced Resistance
Despite the difficulties Red Bull has encountered in terms of race pace this season, and although he remains realistic, especially against faster McLarens over long distances, Max Verstappen does not intend to easily give up his position: « Good start or not, it will be difficult for us. So far, our race pace hasn’t been the best, we know that. And just because I’m on pole today doesn’t mean victory is assured tomorrow. But at the same time, I’m not going to back down. I’m going to try to win », he warned yesterday.
The four-time world champion continued: « So far this season, we have not been able to challenge them. But it’s not like we’re just watching and accepting it. We’re trying to give our best and we’ll fight tomorrow if we have the chance. » The Dutch driver is particularly counting on the whims of the weather and his own experience to maintain the advantage: « We’ll have to wait and see what the weather does… I just hope it will be an interesting race », he adds.
Suzuka: A Demanding Playground
The Suzuka circuit, with its sequence of fast corners and only one DRS zone, makes overtaking and closely following an opponent difficult. Track position will therefore be crucial, especially with the rain threatening to turn the race into an unpredictable event. Even with a better race pace, McLaren drivers will need to find the optimal way to overtake Verstappen, either at the start or through strategy.
For the Dutch champion, currently 8 points ahead of Norris in the driver standings, maintaining his first position would be an achievement that could allow him to take the lead in the championship despite Red Bull’s difficulties.
In any case, with the 86% chance of rain announced, Suzuka will undoubtedly hold many surprises for us, and only the drivers who cross the finish line will have a say.
