The Japanese Grand Prix: Formula 1 prepares for an exciting third act

Teams face a regulatory change that redefines competition in 2026

This weekend, the world of Formula 1 sets its eyes on Japan, where the third Grand Prix of the 2026 season will take place. This event, which takes place at the iconic Suzuka Circuit, promises to be one of the most exciting of the year, not only because of the traditional competitive atmosphere, but also because of the introduction of a regulation change that has shaken the foundations of the 'Great Circus'. The drivers and teams are preparing for a race that could mark a turning point in the fight for the championship.

The Mercedes, with their stellar duo of George Russell and Andrea Antonelli, have started the season with overwhelming strength. After dominating both Australia and China, both drivers are the clear favorites to win this Japanese GP. On the other hand, the Ferraris, represented by Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, have proven to be the main rivals, although still in search of a consistency that allows them to challenge the German team effectively.

Russell leads the drivers' standings with a total of 51 points, a figure that reflects his driving ability and strategic prowess, having achieved one victory and two podiums in the first few races. Antonelli, his teammate, follows closely with 47 points, showing that the internal competition at Mercedes is fierce. In the fight for third place, Leclerc accumulates 34 points, while Hamilton has a slight advantage over him with 33, which adds an interesting nuance to the battle for the third step of the podium.

The 2026 Formula 1 season has a total of eleven teams, after the recent incorporation of Cadillac, which seeks to leave its mark on the competition. This year, the calendar consists of 24 grands prix, culminating with the highly anticipated race in Abu Dhabi on December 6. However, not all teams have welcomed the new regulation changes; Aston Martin and Williams appear to have suffered more than others, facing significant challenges to reach the points.

In this context, two of the most prominent names in Spanish motorsport, Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz Jr., have had a difficult start to the season. Alonso, with just two points in his locker, faces pressure to prove he can still compete at the highest level. On the other hand, Sainz, although he has obtained a couple of points, is desperately seeking to improve his performance in a season that has not been favorable so far.

The current champion, Lando Norris of McLaren, has had a discreet start, accumulating 15 points after finishing in fifth position in Australia and barely adding five in the Chinese GP. Red Bull's Max Verstappen is also struggling to find his rhythm, with just 8 points putting him in eighth position in the drivers' standings.

With the Japanese Grand Prix just around the corner, fans are eagerly waiting to see how events will unfold. The dynamics of the race, along with the changing weather at Suzuka, could influence the results, making this a must-see event for all motorsports enthusiasts.

Japanese Grand Prix schedules

Below are the important schedules for this weekend:

Early morning from Thursday, March 26 to Friday, March 27: Free practice 1 (FP1), from 3:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.
Friday March 27: Free practice 2 (FP2), from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Early morning from Friday, March 27 to Saturday, March 28: Free practice 3 (FP3), from 3:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.
Saturday March 28: Classification, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Sunday March 29: Race, at 7:00 a.m.

Emotions are guaranteed in this Japanese Grand Prix, which will be broadcast live through DAZN, which has once again partnered with Movistar Plus+ to offer complete coverage of all the races of the season. Followers can follow every detail and update in real time on the Mundo Deportivo website.