RB driver Yuki Tsunoda of Japan steers his car during the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix race at the Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai, Sunday, March 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Wong) AP There is plenty of drama and storylines this weekend, as Formula 1 returns to what is hopefully an entertaining edition of the Japanese Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen is back. With only two victories in his last 16 races and in a “mini-slump,” the four-time world champion shocked himself, his Red Bull team and fans by taking pole position for Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix.

Grass fires continued to wreak havoc at the Japanese Grand Prix on Saturday as practice and qualifying sessions were halted three times when three separate blazes broke out.