The 2026 regulations did not bring any fundamental changes, and despite expectations following the action-packed race in Shanghai, the outcome once again largely depended on the start and race strategy.
Kimi Antonelli, starting from pole position, recovered from a poor launch and regained control of the race following a Safety Car period triggered by Bearman’s accident. The incident was significant, with a recorded impact of 50g, and the driver left the scene with medical assistance.
After the restart, Antonelli confidently managed the race, gradually extending his advantage. Behind him, Oscar Piastri, Lewis Hamilton, and George Russell ran in close formation, but with limited opportunities for overtaking.
In the closing stages, the battle for positions intensified: Charles Leclerc overtook Hamilton to secure a place in the top three, while Russell also attempted to challenge but was unable to make progress.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli claimed victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, securing his second consecutive win and completing a hat-trick.The 19-year old Italian became the youngest championship leader in Formula 1 history.
Oscar Piastri finished second, achieving his first podium of the season, while Charles Leclerc completed the top three. Esteban Ocon, finishing tenth, scored his first point of the season.
Following the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, the championship now enters an extended break and will resume in early May at the Miami Grand Prix.
