Japanese GP Practice: Norris Tops Suzuka Timesheets as Tsunoda Impresses in Red Bull Debut

Suzuka Practice Session Highlights

McLaren Dominates Opening Session Lando Norris stamped his authority on the first practice session at the legendary Suzuka circuit, posting a blistering 1:30.450 to lead the field by 0.163 seconds. The British driver recovered brilliantly after an early chicane error to set the benchmark time on soft compound Pirellis.

Mercedes Shows Strong Pace George Russell continued Mercedes' recent resurgence with an impressive P2, just ahead of Ferrari's Charles Leclerc (P3) and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton (P4) in the sister Silver Arrow.

Tsunoda's Promising Red Bull Debut The session's main storyline featured Yuki Tsunoda adapting remarkably well to his sudden promotion to Red Bull Racing. The Japanese driver finished just 0.107s behind world champion teammate Max Verstappen, who struggled with car balance issues throughout the session.

Key Session Takeaways

• McLaren's Suzuka Suitability: Norris's pace confirms McLaren's strong high-speed cornering performance, a crucial factor at the flowing Suzuka circuit.
• Red Bull's Setup Struggles: Verstappen repeatedly complained about unusual car behavior, finishing 0.516s off Norris's pace.
• Tsunoda's Maturity: Despite some minor off-track moments, the 23-year-old demonstrated impressive composure and technical feedback in his upgraded machinery.
• Midfield Battle: Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso narrowly edged the Racing Bulls in a closely-contested midfield scrap.

Notable Incidents

• Norris' early gravel excursion at the chicane
• Multiple drivers struggling with Degner curve's demanding turn-in
• Both Antonelli and Albon recording near-identical lockups at the hairpin

Full Practice 1 Times (Top 10):

1. Norris (McLaren) - 1:30.450
2. Russell (Mercedes) +0.163
3. Leclerc (Ferrari) +0.416
4. Hamilton (Mercedes) +0.502
5. Verstappen (Red Bull) +0.516
6. Tsunoda (Red Bull) +0.623
7. Alonso (Aston Martin) +0.673
8. Hadjar (Racing Bull) +0.676
9. Antonelli (Mercedes) +0.875
10. Sainz (Williams) +0.892

Session conducted in dry conditions with ambient temperature of 24°C