Max Verstappen defies McLaren duo to win fourth Japanese F1 GP in a row

• Dutchman led from pole to win fourth Japanese GP
• McLaren duo Norris and Piastri finish second, third

While it may have been short on thrills, the Japanese Grand Prix was at the very least a demonstration of intent from Max Verstappen. ­Formula One might prefer the spectacle and drama but it is all a bagatelle to ­Verstappen in his pursuit of a fifth consecutive world title.

His victory at Suzuka, ground out with a relentless series of controlled laps while hounded to the flag by the two McLarens, was a pointed reminder that the Dutchman will not go quietly into the night. At the close he had beaten Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri into second and third by just over a second. They had been on his tail throughout, ready to pounce on any moment of weakness at a track that punishes the smallest errors. There were none.