10 Things We Learned At The 2023 F1 Japanese GP

The 2023 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, surprises, and unforgettable moments. As Max Verstappen showcased his dominance, McLaren’s resurgence turned heads, and various incidents unfolded, it became clear that this race was one for the history books. In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore each of the ten key takeaways from this thrilling weekend at Suzuka track.

The 2023 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, surprises, and unforgettable moments. As Max Verstappen showcased his dominance, McLaren’s resurgence turned heads, and various incidents unfolded, it became clear that this race was one for the history books. In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore each of the ten key takeaways from this thrilling weekend at Suzuka.

1. Verstappen’s Commanding Return

Max Verstappen’s performance at Suzuka was nothing short of spectacular. Just five days after Red Bull’s humbling in the 2023 Singapore GP, Verstappen led the pack out of the pits at Suzuka and never looked back. His opening lap was a statement of intent, putting him well clear of the rest. The Dutchman’s dominance was evident throughout the weekend, as he showcased his exceptional skills on this old-school and challenging track.

The Suzuka Circuit is renowned for its unique challenges, featuring a mix of high-speed corners and technical sections. In 2023, these challenges were exacerbated by high temperatures and a rough track surface, making tire management a critical aspect of the race strategy.

2. Verstappen’s And Red Bull’s Resilience

Verstappen’s response to criticism following Red Bull’s disappointing Singapore outing was a testament to his mental resilience. He dismissed claims that the team’s struggles were due to technical directives, instead focusing on delivering a strong performance at Suzuka.

3.Perez’s Struggles

While Verstappen shone, his teammate Sŕþ⁵ergio Perez faced a challenging weekend at Suzuka. Perez struggled in high-speed corners compared to Verstappen, underscoring the importance of car setup and driver adaptability. His race took a disastrous turn with a slow start, a collision with Lewis Hamilton, a series of penalties, and eventual retirement. These incidents raised questions about Perez’s future in F1.

4.Piastri’s Rise at McLaren

Oscar Piastri’s performances at Suzuka were nothing short of impressive and highlighted McLaren’s resurgence in the 2023 season. The young driver demonstrated both speed and racecraft, consistently delivering strong results. However, Piastri still needs to catch up to his teammate Lando Norris in one crucial area to solidify his status as a top-tier driver.

5. Ferrari’s Tire Management

Ferrari’s historic weakness in tire degradation seemed improved at Suzuka. Charles Leclerc’s strong showing hinted at progress in the team’s ability to manage tire wear effectively. Effective tire management is crucial in Formula 1, as it can significantly impact race pace and strategy.

6.Defensive DRS Tactics

The race at Suzuka revealed that defensive tactics against the Drag Reduction System (DRS) don’t always pay off as planned. Teams, including Mercedes, struggled to fend off rivals when employing these strategies. DRS is a powerful tool for overtaking in F1, and finding the right balance between defense and attack can be challenging.

7.Alpine’s Combustible DuoFench 

Alpine’s driver lineup, consisting of Fernando Alonso and Esteban Ocon, displayed signs of tension during the race. On-track incidents highlighted the competitive spirit between the two teammates. Managing intra-team rivalries is crucial for a team’s overall success, and Alpine faces the challenge of ensuring a harmonious working relationship.

8.Verstappen’s Controversial Singapore Incident

Verstappen’s impeding of other drivers during the Singapore Grand Prix generated controversy. This incident sparked discussions about the consistency of race decisions by stewards. F1 fans and experts debated whether Verstappen should have been penalized for his actions, raising questions about the enforcement of racing rules.

9. AlphaTauri’s Driver Line-Up

AlphaTauri’s announcement of its 2024 driver lineup featuring Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo left Liam Lawson, a promising rookie, without a confirmed F1 seat. The competitive nature of driver line-ups in F1 adds complexity to the career paths of young talents like Lawson, who must continue to impress to secure a future in the sport.

10.Bonus: Gasly’s Request and Piastri’s Traits

Pierre Gasly’s request for Alpine to narrow its cockpit size for 2024 introduced an intriguing subplot. This request could impact the future of his teammate Esteban Ocon. Additionally, Oscar Piastri’s new 2026 contract suggests that he embodies traits reminiscent of F1 legends Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher. This recognition underscores his potential as a future star in the sport.

The 2023 F1 Japanese Grand Prix delivered a captivating blend of on-track action, strategic battles, and intriguing storylines. It was a race that showcased the unpredictable nature of motorsport and left fans eagerly anticipating the next exhilarating race on the F1 calendar.