F1 Japanese GP 2024: Everything you need to know

After witnessing an impressive comeback of Carlos Sainz after his appendix surgery, the motorsport industry is ready for the fourth round of the 2024 F1 season. The Japanese GP is just around the corner and the F1 fans have already started anticipating results based upon the spectacular race at Albert Park.

McLaren’s young driver, Lando Norris, became the driver with the most podiums(14) without a win after finishing P3 at the Australian GP. Hence we can expect a similar exhilarating performance from the team at Suzuka.

However, Suzuka can pose a challenge for the drivers. With its eight-figure layout, Suzuka is one of the most favourite among the F1 drivers and fans.

With a top speed of 315 km/h and an average of around 230 km/h, the 5.81 km course requires drivers to act on quick reflexes due to its combination of fast and slow bends. Along with the absence of tarmac run-off areas, the drivers need to be extra careful about being on the track or they might end up in the gravel.

When is the Japanese Grand Prix 2024?

For the first time in F1’s history, Japanese Grand Prix will be held in the month of April. This is done by F1 to improve sustainability and achieve zero carbon emissions by 2030. Hence it is taking place between the Australian and the Chinese Grand Prix.

The race will kick off with the first and second practice on 5 April (Friday). The final practice will take place on 6 April (Saturday), followed by the Qualifying. The Grand Prix will be held on 7 April, i.e. Sunday from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm IST.

Event	Date	Time
FP1	5 April	8:00 am – 9:00 am IST
FP2	5 April	11:30 am – 12:30 pm IST
FP3	6 April	8:00 am – 9:00 am IST
Qualifying	6 April	11:30 am – 12:30 am IST
Race	7 April	10:30 am – 12:30 am IST

Daniel Ricciardo will be replaced for the first practice

It has come to our notice after the Australian Grand Prix that Daniel Ricciardo will be replaced by Red Bull junior Ayumu Iwasa for the first practice session at Suzuka. 

The decision to replace Ricciardo has raised several questions. This has led to numerous speculations about his form and his future at Visa Cash App RB. Ricciado’s performance hasn’t been remarkable like it was in 2023 with AlphaTauri. 

Even after Daniel Ricciardo’s struggles from the start of the season, it is a really bold move to bring a rookie driver to replace him for the first race. However, it is not very uncommon for rookie drivers to take part in races. But considering Suzuka’s unpredictability and corners, it isn’t the venue you want to introduce a rookie to. 

Suzuka’s Unpredictable Weather

The track conditions this weekend seem very challenging, as the recent weather forecast predicts a wet weekend. This means drivers will have to watch out for the wet and tricky track that will impact their overall performance.

FRIDAY – FP1 AND FP2

• Forecast: Cloudy with a gentle breeze and a chance of light rain as the day progresses.
• Temperature: 9°C – 15°C
• Chance of rain: 40%

SATURDAY – FP3 AND QUALIFYING

• Forecast: Overcast with light winds and chance of light rain showers.
• Temperature: 9°C – 16°C
• Chance of rain: 40%

SUNDAY – RACE

• Forecast: Cloudy with a chance of light rain showers.
• Temperature: 12°C – 17°C
• Chance of rain: 60%

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