The Grand Prix of Japan at Suzuka has always been considered one of the most prestigious and spectacular stages of the Royal Races. In 2024, the track once again provided fans with a plethora of bright moments, dramatic plot twists, and unexpected results. A close look is deserved by the performance of each of the 20 pilots because behind the dry figures of the protocol lie stories of fierce struggle, mistakes, and brilliant moves. We offer a detailed ranking of drivers based on the exciting weekend in the Land of the Rising Sun. By the way, for Formula 1 betting, you can register with a reliable bookmaker and download the Mostbet App. This bookmaker offers a generous welcome bonus for new players.
Performance Evaluation Criteria
The rating is compiled based on a whole range of factors – from pure speed and piloting skill to the stability of results and skillful extraction of maximum potential from the available technical capabilities. Not only the race itself was taken into account, but also the qualification, which served as its kind of zero lap and laid the foundation for further competition.
It is important to note that we are not evaluating the overall skill of the drivers – this is only a snapshot of their performance at a specific stage in Suzuka. Therefore, the rating will significantly differ from the official protocol and finishing order, where the difference in car speeds of different teams, tactical decisions, and circumstances beyond the pilots’ control played a major role.
Max Verstappen – Winner Without False Modesty
Max Verstappen started first and finished first, once again demonstrating a phenomenal level of driving. In qualifying, the Dutchman was only 0.066 seconds ahead of his teammate Sergio Perez, admitting that two laps of the Mexican were also pole-worthy. But in the race, Verstappen’s advantage was overwhelming – he started perfectly, controlled the situation from start to checkered flag, and never gave any doubt about his superiority.
Max once again proved that he is not only a brilliant driver but also a psychologically resilient fighter. Despite serious pressure from Perez in qualifying, he managed to focus and deliver a flawless race weekend. Even the most ardent skeptics had to admit the reigning champion’s superiority. Verdict: qualification was good, but the race was perfect.
Sergio Perez – “Silver” For The Mexican Daredevil
Sergio Perez once again proved that he is one of the strongest drivers of the present time. In qualifying, he breathed down Verstappen’s neck and almost snatched pole position, losing to Max by only 0.066 seconds. However, the revenge against his teammate Checo took place in the race, where he was slightly less convincing. At the start, he practically pulled away, but eventually Verstappen caught up with him and moved ahead.
Nevertheless, Perez withstood the pressure from his opponents and finished second with a margin. Especially noteworthy is his defense against Ferrari’s counterattacks on alternative strategies. Skillful management of attacking engine modes and tires allowed the Mexican to prevent Italian cars from reaching the podium. Verdict: Checo’s best weekend this season.
Alonso In Great Form
Fernando Alonso had possibly one of the best weekends in his illustrious career at Suzuka. The driver, who is leading an uncompromising battle against doping scandals and promoting motorsport on the world stage, was magnificent.
Alonso started 5th and finished 6th, extracting the maximum from Aston Martin’s capabilities. His racing intelligence, cunning, and experience allowed him to outplay his opponents completely. In particular, Fernando skillfully used DRS, allowing Oscar Piastri to pass, and then holding off George Russell’s pressure. And his tirelessness and dedication once again set the standard for other drivers. Verdict: Alonso was flawless and vividly demonstrated – big successes await Russia in motorsport.
Norris Trapped By Circumstances
Lando Norris qualified brilliantly, showing the 3rd fastest time, but during the race found himself surrounded by midfielders. This resulted in the need to pit early to somehow compensate for the cuts by Ferrari and to shake off the tailing group.
As a result, Norris had to complete two very long stints, which affected the final result. Towards the end of the race, the British driver simply ran out of tires, and he couldn’t hold off Carlos Sainz’s pressure. Norris also narrowly avoided a mistake by going off track at Degner.
But overall, Lando had a decent race and was one of the best among McLaren’s lineup. He fought against faster Ferraris until the very end, and only a strategic error prevented him from clinching the podium. Verdict: Norris squeezed out the maximum, but circumstances worked against him.
Sainz’s Podium – A Reward For Consistency
Carlos Sainz looked more stable and confident than his teammate Charles Leclerc throughout the weekend. In qualifying, the Spaniard was faster than the Monegasque, allowing him to start from 4th place, while Leclerc, due to mistakes, only managed 8th.
In the race, Sainz’s advantage only increased. The key factor was his ability to heat the tires more effectively on one lap – this allowed him to overtake the stubbornly defending Lando Norris on the decisive stretch. And when Sainz took the lead, he easily overtook Leclerc, who noticeably slowed down towards the end.
