Japan 2026: pre-qualifying

Been bit off-colour of late, so this and the next post may be briefer than normal.



In shock news, Mercedes topped the first practice session, Russell two-hundredths ahead of Antonelli. Norris and Piastri were about a tenth further back and very close to one another. And a tenth further back we had Leclerc and Hamilton. Verstappen was four-tenths down the road, a little ahead of Lawson, Ocon, and Lindblad.

In a more surprising result, Piastri topped second practice, less than a tenth ahead of Antonelli with Russell a further tenth back. There was three-tenths back to Norris, then a couple of tenths to Leclerc, who led Hamilton (surprised the Ferrari are seeming behind McLaren, if practice is accurate). Hulkenberg put his Audi seventh quickest, ahead of Albon, Bearman, and Verstappen.

Piastri or Norris for pole is tempting. They’re up at 11 each way, boostable to 12.

Mercedes have been dominant in qualifying so far, but if McLaren have got their act together, it could be worth a shot. But… the dominance of Mercedes does put me off.

If you’ve got a free bet, I’d go for the above, but no qualifying tip.



Also, remember the clocks change, in the UK, on Sunday.

Morris

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