Active

Grand Prix Japan 2025: A Dramatic Shift in Formula 1’s Power Struggle

Just a year ago, Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing were the dominant force in Formula 1. However, heading into the Grand Prix Japan, the landscape has drastically changed.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
In the upcoming Japan Grand Prix, Red Bull finds itself in turmoil, while McLaren has emerged as the new benchmark in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships / Photo Formula 1
In the upcoming Japan Grand Prix, Red Bull finds itself in turmoil, while McLaren has emerged as the new benchmark in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships / Photo Formula 1

In the upcoming Japan Grand Prix, Red Bull finds itself in turmoil, while McLaren has emerged as the new benchmark in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships.

 

Last season, Max Verstappen and his then-teammate Sergio Pérez enjoyed an uncontested lead. 

 

Now, the Dutch driver has witnessed both Pérez and his replacement, Liam Lawson, being ousted in the span of three months. 

 

Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda is set to make his debut for Red Bull Racing on home soil at Suzuka, marking a significant moment in his career.

 

The last few weeks have been particularly turbulent for Red Bull. Amid growing internal tensions, the team recently held an emergency meeting to address the underlying issues plaguing the RB21. 

 

Though Verstappen showed a glimmer of hope in the Chinese Grand Prix by reducing his time gap behind Oscar Piastri, it remains uncertain whether Red Bull can claw its way back into contention before the Japan Grand Prix.

Yuki Tsunoda is set to make his debut for Red Bull Racing on home soil at Suzuka / Photo Formula 1
Yuki Tsunoda is set to make his debut for Red Bull Racing on home soil at Suzuka / Photo Formula 1

A Fierce Four-Team Battle for Victory

With Tsunoda joining Red Bull Racing, his chances of fighting for the podium remain slim despite his confidence. 

 

However, the battle at the front has never been more competitive, with four teams vying for supremacy at Suzuka.

 

Ferrari: A Strong Contender with a Qualifying Setback

Ferrari has proven to be a strong competitor in race pace, but its qualifying performance has left much to be desired. 

 

The team has prioritized tire longevity over an aggressive warm-up strategy, a decision that has cost them valuable positions on the grid.

 

Following two disappointing race weekends, including a double disqualification, Ferrari is under immense pressure to bounce back at the Japan Grand Prix.

Ferrari has proven to be a strong competitor in race pace, but its qualifying performance has left much to be desired / Photo Formula 1
Ferrari has proven to be a strong competitor in race pace, but its qualifying performance has left much to be desired / Photo Formula 1

Mercedes: The Closest Rival to McLaren

In China, Mercedes posed the biggest threat to McLaren. However, the 2025 W16 has shown inconsistencies, performing optimally only within a very narrow window. 

 

Additionally, the complexity of Pirelli’s current tire regulations has proven challenging for rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who struggled throughout the previous race weekend.

 

Red Bull Racing: Verstappen’s Lone Battle

Since Daniel Ricciardo’s departure from Red Bull in 2019, Verstappen has remained the sole consistent threat for the team. 

 

That trend appears likely to continue, with the Dutch driver expected to carry the team’s hopes at Suzuka.

 

However, the RB21 has proven to be tough on tires and lacks the outright pace to match its direct rivals.

McLaren: The Team to Beat

McLaren enters Japan as the clear favorite, having secured victories in both of the opening races—one for Lando Norris and the other for Oscar Piastri. 

 

The MCL39 stands out as the most complete car on the grid, despite occasional handling issues that Norris has voiced concerns about.

 

Nevertheless, with strong performances at both Albert Park and the Shanghai International Circuit, McLaren has established itself as the benchmark for the current season.

McLaren enters Japan as the clear favorite, having secured victories in both of the opening races / Photo Formula 1
McLaren enters Japan as the clear favorite, having secured victories in both of the opening races / Photo Formula 1

Keys about the JGP

  • Who is the favorite to win the Japan Grand Prix? McLaren enters as the strongest contender, with both Norris and Piastri in top form.
  • What has caused Red Bull’s recent struggles? Internal tensions, performance issues with the RB21, and instability within the driver lineup have contributed to their decline.
  • How has Ferrari performed this season? Ferrari has shown strong race pace but has struggled in qualifying, leading to poor grid positions
  • Where can fans watch the Japan Grand Prix? The race will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, with full coverage across the weekend.

If you found this article about Japan Grand Prix. You can also read this other one about the new Jakub Mensik or you can also check our Active section for other interesting notes.

Receive the latest news

Subscribe To Our Magazine

Luster Magazine

Digital Magazine

Ingresa los siguientes datos y comienza a disfrutar de nuestra revista digital.