PRACTICE DEBRIEF: Red Bull appear to be back on form in Japan but is there still hope for rival teams?

Normal service was resumed in Suzuka as Max Verstappen took his familiar position at the top of the timesheets, following a lacklustre performance last time out in Singapore. But will he have it all his own way in qualifying and the race – or could the likes of Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes and Aston Martin get in on the act?

Red Bull back in control at Suzuka

“From Lap 1, the car was enjoyable to drive.” The chilled, smiley demeanour that has characterised Max Verstappen for most of the season was back on Friday, as the Red Bull racer danced his RB19 around Suzuka with aplomb.