F1 shifts focus to Suzuka

Mercedes lead the early battle with George Russell on 51 points and Andrea Kimi Antonelli on 47, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton sit third and fourth on 34 and 33 respectively. (formula1.com) Mercedes have turned pace into results with successive 1–2s: Russell won in Melbourne (Antonelli P2) and Antonelli converted pole into victory in Shanghai with Russell second. (formula1.com) The works team’s form has translated into a commanding constructors advantage — Mercedes top the table on 98 points, 31 clear of Ferrari on 67. (formula1.com) Suzuka is a 5.807‑kilometre, figure‑eight circuit contested over 53 laps (about 307.5 km) and features 18 turns that reward high‑speed stability. (formula1.com) Pirelli will bring the hardest trio of its 2026 slicks to Suzuka — the C1, C2 and C3 — citing the circuit’s continuous direction changes and high‑speed loads as one of the sternest tyre tests on the calendar. (press.pirelli.com) Teams and engineers view Suzuka as an early benchmark for aero balance and mechanical grip after two rounds that underlined Mercedes’ early advantage. (total-motorsport.com)