The first leg of the triple-header is in the history books, and the title fight looks to have been ignited. is now just one point behind in the Drivers' Championship standings after the Dutchman fended off his rival to win the Japanese Grand Prix by a narrow margin.
McLaren were the heavy favourites heading into the race weekend after sweeping the first two Grands Prix in Melbourne and Shanghai. However, despite the MCL39 being the fastest car in the field, a surprise late surge in qualifying gave Verstappen pole position, which he never relinquished his grip on during the race on Sunday.
Oscar Piastri isn't out of the fight, either. In many races, the Australian has shown pace that matches or even surpasses team-mate Norris, but inconsistent qualifying displays have held him back.
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