SUZUKA: Four-time world champion Max Verstappen led from pole to chequered flag to win the Japanese Grand Prix today, his first victory of the 2025 season, with McLaren's Lando Norris second.

The Dutch Red Bull driver crossed the finish line almost 1.5 seconds in front of Briton Norris, who held off his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri of Australia in third.

The win on a damp but drying track at Suzuka was Verstappen's fourth straight victory in Japan and closed the gap on Norris at the top of the drivers' championship to one point.

"It was tough. The McLarens were pushing me very hard," said Verstappen.

"It was a lot of fun but not easy pushing the tyres. I am incredibly happy.

"Starting on pole made it possible to win."

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished fourth ahead of the Mercedes pair of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.

Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton was seventh, with RB's Isack Hadjar next ahead of Williams' Alex Albon and Haas's Oliver Bearman.

Yuki Tsunoda finished 12th in his first race for Red Bull since replacing Liam Lawson, having started from 14th on the grid in his home grand prix. Lawson was 17th for RB.

Verstappen and Norris were involved in a flashpoint midway through the race as the two front-runners emerged from a pit stop.

Norris drew up alongside Verstappen but the Dutchman refused to budge and Norris was forced onto the grass before sliding back onto the track.

Norris said "he forced me off" but Verstappen told his team that he was not to blame.

"He drove himself onto the grass," said Verstappen.

Stewards reviewed the incident and decided not to investigate further.

Verstappen has struggled to get to grips with his Red Bull this season, finishing second in Australia and fourth in China.