Japanese Grand Prix LIVE! Current updates as Kimi Antonelli, George Russell, and others compete in Suzuka
The third grand prix of the 2026 Formula 1 season is here at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, and you can catch all the action with ESPN.
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli, having secured pole position for the second consecutive race, will lead the field into Turn 1, followed closely by his teammate George Russell.
Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc will be right behind them, while Max Verstappen will start from 11th position after being eliminated in Q2, expressing his feelings of ‘extreme frustration’.
Stay updated here.
Recent performances in this grand prix have been dominated by Verstappen, who has claimed victory in the last four races from 2022 to 2025. However, achieving a fifth consecutive win on Sunday would require something truly remarkable given Red Bull’s early challenges this season.
Mercedes will be optimistic about securing their third win out of three this year with both drivers starting from the front row. In 2025, Antonelli set two records in Japan, becoming the youngest driver ever to achieve the fastest lap and to lead a race at just 18 years old.
The Suzuka Circuit, featuring 18 turns, remains a favorite among fans, recognized for its distinctive ‘figure-of-eight’ configuration β the only one of its kind on the calendar.
This track presents a relentless challenge for drivers, particularly through the “Esses” β Turns 3 to 6 β as well as the renowned Spoon and 130R corners.
Source: espn.com
