Formula 1 held qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka this Saturday, where Kimi Antonelli once again set the pace and took pole position, solidifying Mercedes' strong start to the 2026 season.
The Italian driver secured his second consecutive pole, in a weekend where he again showed his solidity and precision. In addition, Mercedes completed a 1-2 with George Russell, while Oscar Piastri took third place.
With this result, the German team maintains its absolute dominance in qualifying, having taken all three pole positions so far this championship.
A demanding format and a Q1 with big names out
Qualifying was held under the 2026 format, with an 18-minute Q1, 15-minute Q2 and 13-minute Q3, in a session where traffic and tight margins were once again decisive.
Eliminated in Q1 were Alexander Albon, Oliver Bearman, Sergio Pérez, Valtteri Bottas, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.Among them, Bearman’s elimination stood out, as he failed to advance with his Haas in a very close session.
Verstappen, the big surprise of the day
Q2 produced the most shocking result of the session. Max Verstappen failed to advance to Q3 and was eliminated, a total contrast to what happened last year, when he had taken pole and victory at Suzuka.
Joining the Dutchman on the sidelines were Esteban Ocon, Nico Hülkenberg, Liam Lawson, Franco Colapinto and Carlos Sainz, in a session that again highlighted how tight the performance is between teams.
Mercedes sets the pace at Suzuka
In Q3, Mercedes once again imposed their conditions. Antonelli was fastest, followed by Russell, sealing the front row for the German team.
Behind them, Piastri confirmed McLaren’s strong performance and positions himself as one of the main rivals for Sunday’s race. Another rival will be Leclerc, who will start from fourth place and will be closely watched at the start, given that Ferraris are known for their strong launches.
What to expect for the race
With Mercedes dominating qualifying and several key drivers starting from the back, the Japanese Grand Prix is shaping up to be an open race, but with a clear outlook: Mercedes is very strong, with both car and team responding extremely well.
Battery management will be key at Suzuka, a circuit where track position is crucial, but where strategic opportunities can also arise. Knowing how to manage the battery and where to recharge it will be very important for this 53-lap race, which is expected to be run in good weather.
The big question is whether Antonelli can sustain Mercedes’ dominance and convert pole into victory, or whether the race will open the door for his pursuers.