The starting lineup for the Japanese Grand Prix has now been confirmed. Reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton retains his position at the front of the grid. The Mercedes driver, having secured a record-extending 97th pole position at Istanbul earlier this year, will be looking to make his lead unassailable during the race. The British champion has a long-standing rivalry with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who narrowly missed the pole and will start beside Hamilton.
The second row of the grid will see Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. Bottas, who has had a difficult season, has nevertheless shown his quality in recent races for Mercedes. Perez, on the other hand, will be chomping at the bit to show Red Bull why he was chosen to replace Alex Albon this season.
Fifth and sixth place on the grid are occupied respectively by Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. Both drivers have demonstrated considerable skill throughout this season and will be looking to capitalise on any opportunity that comes their way during the race.
McLaren’s Lando Norris has bagged the seventh position on the grid, while AlphaTauri’s Pierre Gasly sits at eighth. The latter has had a notable season, proving his credentials and making AlphaTauri a team to watch out for.
Rounding off the top 10 are Alpine’s Fernando Alonso in ninth and the second McLaren driver, Daniel Ricciardo, in tenth. Both drivers have shown their mettle this season, with Ricciardo getting his first win for McLaren at the Italian Grand Prix.
Full details of the grid lineup can be found here. As the drivers prepare for one of the most intense races on the F1 map, fans around the world will eagerly be watching to see who takes the checkered flag in the historic Suzuka circuit, home to the Japanese Grand Prix.
Last modified: April 6, 2025
