Formula One: Max Verstappen wins Japanese Grand Prix – as it happened

Max Verstappen passes the crowd at the Suzuka Circuit. Photograph: Androniki Christodoulou/Reuters

8.33am BST

And with that, I think I’m done.

So after a slight diversion in Melbourne, normal service has resumed in Japan, with Verstappen becoming the only driver other than Michael Schumacher to win three straight Japanese grand prix. He retains his play atop the championship standings, with teammate Sergio Perez sitting in second after his second-placed finish in Suzuka.

We had some early drama and a red flag when Albon and Ricciardo went off after just a few turns but once we got things re-started there was no stopping the Red Bulls, who never really looked challenged en route to a third one-two finish in just the third race of the season.

After winning in Melbourne, Sainz did a magnificent job of managing his tyres and used the advantage that gave him to storm into third place as the race concluded, one place in front of teammate Leclerc and his one-stop strategy.

Norris would finish the race in fifth and Alonso in seventh, the latter getting a good view of the battle between Piastri and Russell that went down to the final lap, the Australian arguing that he was forced off the track during the to and fro.

Hamilton followed his Mercedes teammate in ninth and it was a good day for the crowd favourite and Japanese native Tsunoda, who took the final point in tenth.

I’ve been Joey Lynch, thanks for your company today. The tour will return in two weeks time at the Shanghai International Circuit, as F1 returns to China for the first time since 2019.

Japan's 12-year wait for points at home is OVER! 🙌

Here's the moment Yuki made his own bit of history 🏁#F1 #JapaneseGP pic.twitter.com/O1czh6gMdm

— Formula 1 (@F1) April 7, 2024

Updated at 8.36am BST

8.31am BST

This guy just doesn't stop 👏

Max matches Michael's record for three straight Suzuka wins 🏆#F1 #JapaneseGP pic.twitter.com/XcXEyjU231

— Formula 1 (@F1) April 7, 2024