Max Verstappen delivered a masterclass in composure and control at the Japanese Grand Prix, fending off relentless McLaren pressure to clinch his first victory of the 2025 Formula 1 season and Red Bull’s last Honda-powered win on home soil.
After two races where McLaren had looked untouchable, Verstappen’s pole lap during qualifying was just 0.012 seconds quicker than Lando Norris which hinted at a shift in momentum. On race day, he turned that edge into gold, leading all 53 laps at Suzuka with trademark precision.
“It was tough, we were pushing very hard and it was a lot of fun out there,” Verstappen said. “It means a lot to me, it is a great story to win here for Honda in Japan.” The one-off white Red Bull livery was a nod to the departing engine partner and Verstappen sent it off in perfect fashion.
Behind him, Norris and Oscar Piastri hunted in tandem, but Red Bull’s strategy and Verstappen’s flawless drive left no door open. Norris came closest after a rapid pit stop put him wheel-to-wheel with Verstappen exiting the pitlane, but he ran out of road and bounced across the grass.
“He squeezed me,” Norris said post-race. “But he’s the last guy you expect to give you any space, it’s racing.” Despite the drama, stewards saw no foul play.
As the laps ticked down, McLaren’s threat faded. Piastri asked the team if Norris was saving tyres, only to be told he was pushing flat-out. The Australian sensed blood but couldn’t attack without risking a collision.
Verstappen’s victory the 64th of his career, moves him just a single point behind Norris in the championship standings. Charles Leclerc came home fourth for Ferrari, while George Russell led Mercedes’ charge in fifth.
Further down, Isack Hadjar impressed with points for Racing Bulls, and Yuki Tsunoda endured a muted afternoon in 12th despite heavy attention following his Red Bull promotion.
