2026 Japanese GP: Piastri Untouchable in FP2

Warm weather, blooming sakura, and packed grandstands welcomed the drivers at Suzuka. Only the variable wind caused issues — in the first session, many drivers ran off track at the Spoon corner.

Lando Norris lost around 20 minutes in the first session and nearly 40 minutes in the second due to a hydraulic leak. At Cadillac, Sergio Pérez experienced brake issues. Arvid Lindblad returned to the pits with a gearbox problem and did not continue the session.

In the 15th minute, Alex Albon stopped at Turn 1 due to a throttle issue but was able to continue after resetting the system. Gabriel Bortoleto returned to the pits with an engine problem and only rejoined the track with 10 minutes remaining in the session.

Franco Colapinto impeded Max Verstappen, who was on a flying lap, while warming up his tyres on his out lap. The stewards investigated the incident and issued Colapinto an official warning after the session.

Oscar Piastri topped the timesheets in the second practice session with a best lap of 1:30.133.

The second practice session will also take place later today.