Honda F1 2026 (Season 1)

Martin Brundle: “Exactly, Crofty. Mercedes and Red Bull are right on their tails, but Suzuka rewards precision. Alpine’s Gasly and Piastri could cause some surprises in the medium corners, and Aston Martin, especially Alonso, could sneak into the top five if everything clicks. Meanwhile, the newcomers — Honda — are still learning the ropes. Tsunoda and Iwasa have raw pace, but consistency and experience are the key, and as a new team, they have no prior F1 points to rely on. This is their first real chance to show what they can do under pressure.”

Croft: “And with the field so tight, every lap counts. Even Ferrari could make a tiny mistake in the Esses or Spoon Curve, and suddenly someone like the McLarens or Alonso is in the mix. Honda will have to punch above their weight just to survive into Q2, but Suzuka loves chaos — anything can happen.”

Brundle: “Absolutely. Drivers heading out now for Q1 — it’s going to be fast, clean, and extremely competitive. Ferrari are the favorites, Red Bull and Mercedes close behind, and Honda just hoping to make a splash. Let’s see who can cook, and who just survives.”

SUNDAY

For Honda, this race means everything. Suzuka is not just another stop on the calendar — it is home, history, identity. A returning Japanese works team stepping back onto the grid at its own circuit, with grandstands packed full of red-and-white flags, is a moment years in the making. For Yuki Tsunoda, this is the race that shaped his dream, the circuit he grew up watching on television, now lined with fans who expect effort, pride, and fight more than results. For Ayumu Iwasa, it’s even more raw — his first home Formula 1 race as a full-time driver, under conditions that demand courage and composure beyond raw pace. Honda know they are not yet fast enough to challenge the front, but in a wet Suzuka, survival, intelligence, and discipline can matter just as much as speed. Finishing the race, making the right calls, and showing resilience in front of their home crowd would represent progress far greater than any lap time. In these conditions, with chaos looming and pressure at its peak, this race is about proving they belong — not tomorrow, not next year, but right now, on Japanese soil...

David Croft:
“Good morning everyone and welcome to Suzuka, where the rain has arrived right on cue. Look at that — standing water offline, spray hanging in the air, and a circuit that is already one of the most demanding on the calendar made even more treacherous. This is not going to be straightforward, Martin.”

Martin Brundle:
“No, Crofty, this is proper Suzuka weather. The Esses will be absolutely brutal in these conditions, Degner one mistake away from disaster, and 130R… well, you’re just a passenger if you get that wrong. This is the kind of race where reputation doesn’t matter — only control.”

Croft:
“And Ferrari start from the front row today, Charles Leclerc on pole with Lewis Hamilton alongside him. They’ve cooked all weekend so far, but in the wet, that advantage can disappear in an instant.”

Brundle:
“It can, but Ferrari look very confident. The car’s been stable, good traction, and that’s exactly what you need in these conditions. Behind them though — Russell, Verstappen, Piastri — they’ll be watching for the slightest mistake.”

Croft:
“And then there’s the midfield, which looks absolutely primed for chaos. RB have been quick, Haas stronger than expected, and Aston Martin with Alonso lurking just behind the front runners.”

Brundle:
“Absolutely. And keep an eye on the newcomers, Honda. Tsunoda and Iwasa start further back, and realistically this is damage-limitation territory for them. Wet races at Suzuka are not forgiving, especially for a new team. They’ll be focused on staying out of trouble — but sometimes, Crofty, staying out of trouble is exactly how you end up in the points.”

Croft:
“And at the back, Cadillac will be desperate just to see the chequered flag after a rough start to the season. Visibility is poor, strategy is a gamble, and nobody truly knows whether inters or full wets are the right call.”

Brundle:
“This feels like one of those races where the safety car is almost guaranteed, where half the field will make mistakes, and where someone unexpected could find themselves right at the sharp end.”

Croft:
“The rain is falling, the tension is rising, and Suzuka is ready to bite. Strap yourselves in — this could be absolute chaos...”

FORMATION LAP

David Croft:
“We've got yellow flag here at Sector 1. Ocon's spun around at Turn 1 he's OUT!”

David Croft:
“Oh my word, Martin — we’ve got another one! Sergio Perez has lost it at Degner One! He’s gone straight on, there’s absolutely no grip out there!”

Martin Brundle:
“That’s aquaplaning, Crofty. The tyres just aren’t cutting through the water — once you’re a passenger there, there’s nothing you can do. That Cadillac just slid straight on.”

Croft:
“And this is all still before the race start! We’ve already lost Esteban Ocon on the formation lap, and now Perez is out of the equation as well.”

Brundle:
“This is as bad as I’ve seen it, honestly. Suzuka in the wet is unforgiving, and the drivers haven’t even got temperature into the tyres yet.”

Croft:
“WAIT — we’ve got another yellow! Lance Stroll is around at Spoon Curve! The Aston Martin’s spun into the gravel!”

Brundle:
“That’s a horrible place to lose it. Mid-corner, long radius, you think you’ve got grip… and then it just goes. He hasn’t hit anything, but he’s beached it. That’s him done.”

Croft:
“This is unbelievable! Three cars now, Martin — Ocon, Perez, and Stroll — and we still haven’t started the race!”

Brundle:
“And look at the spray, Crofty. The visibility is dreadful. Drivers won’t be able to see brake boards, apexes — they’re guessing.”

Croft:
“OH NO — ISACK HADJAR! Hadjar’s lost the Red Bull through the Esses! He’s sideways — and he’s hit the barrier!”

Brundle:
“That’s the Esses for you. Any imbalance, any hesitation, and the car just snaps. He’s very lucky that wasn’t a bigger hit.”

Croft:
“Four cars! Four cars out or stranded before we even take the start! This is chaos, absolute chaos here at Suzuka!”

Brundle:
“This has got Safety Car written all over it. You simply cannot start a race properly in these conditions with cars scattered around the circuit.”

Croft:
“And there’s the confirmation — race control says the start will be behind the Safety Car.”

Brundle:
“That’s the only sensible decision. You can’t risk a standing start when drivers are losing control at formation lap speeds.”

Croft:
“And Martin, spare a thought for the newcomers Honda — Tsunoda and Iwasa creeping around, keeping it clean. This is not about speed today, it’s about survival.”

Brundle:
“Exactly. If you keep it on the road today, you’re already winning.”

and then...

Croft:
“Hold on, Martin — Yuki Tsunoda! The Honda’s gone around at the Spoon Curve! He’s spinning in the wet! That was close!”

Brundle:
“Wow! Look at that — he’s lucky the barriers are soft here. The car’s slowed enough that the impact is cushioned. Could’ve been very different if he’d clipped that wall at full speed.”

Croft:
“He’s upright again! Somehow, Yuki keeps it together, the car looks okay… but the barriers have taken quite a beating there. He’s out of the racing line now, waiting for marshals.”

Brundle:
“Exactly, Crofty. That’s one of those moments where survival is the only goal. The spin didn’t cost the car too much, but the impact on the barriers is significant. They need to repair that section before the race can safely continue.”

Croft:
“And I think that’s it — race control has brought out the red flag. The Safety Car start is now postponed. All the damaged barriers will have to be repaired before we even think about going green. This is absolute chaos for the first lap of the Japanese GP!”

Brundle:
“You can see why they’ve done it, David. You can’t risk sending the cars out behind a Safety Car with those barriers compromised. Even the slowest spin could be catastrophic.”

Croft:
“And think about the impact on the teams — Tsunoda survives, but the pit walls are frantic. Honda’s double points from last race are a distant memory — they just want to get the cars around Suzuka in one piece now.”

Brundle:
“Exactly. Survival, control, and patience. That’s all that matters now, Crofty. Any driver caught out in this weather before the barriers are repaired could be out instantly.”

Croft:
“So, delayed start, red flag, and a tense wait for the repairs. The fans are still buzzing — rain, chaos, and a home driver spin. Suzuka is living up to its reputation, and this race is already shaping up to be unforgettable.”

30 minutes later...

Race Control: “All cars to be released behind the Safety Car. Rolling start in place. Barriers repaired. Note: Car #31 Esteban Ocon, Car #11 Sergio Perez, Car  #18 Lance Stroll, and Car #6 Isack Hadjar are out of the race.”

David Croft:
“Right, Martin — it’s official. The red flag is lifted, the barriers are repaired, and the race will start behind the Safety Car. But look at this list — Ocon, Perez, Stroll, Hadjar… all gone before the first lap!”

Martin Brundle:
“Unbelievable. Four cars already out and we haven’t even had a proper racing lap. Suzuka in the wet is living up to its fearsome reputation. You’ve got to be patient, Crofty — this is going to be a survival battle.”

Croft:
“And the tension on the grid — drivers staring at the spray, the track still very slippery. Red flags and multiple spins have set the tone: it’s anyone’s race to either seize or survive.”

Brundle:
“And let’s not forget the newcomers, Honda. Tsunoda and Iwasa have been crawling through cautiously, but they’re under pressure. This is their home GP, Crofty, and finishing this race could be as big as scoring points in any other round.”

Croft:
“Yes, Martin — double points last time out were pure luck, but Suzuka will be about control, decision-making, and patience more than outright pace. And with a rolling start now, the field has to keep the gaps tight, watch the wet patches, and avoid the drama that’s already struck four drivers.”

Brundle:
“You can guarantee more chaos is coming, Crofty. Suzuka in the wet does not forgive mistakes. Whoever gets it right — whoever survives — is going to be smiling at the chequered flag.”

LAP 1

Croft: "And we’re finally racing at Suzuka after the formation lap carnage! Leclerc leads Hamilton cleanly through Turn 1, still managing the wet track perfectly."
Brundle: "Yes, David, the front runners are cautious but precise — one tiny slip and it could be another off like we saw earlier."

Croft: "The midfield is a little calmer than expected, now that Ocon, Perez, Hadjar, and Stroll are out. That’s opened a lot of space for drivers to thread through."
Brundle: "Absolutely, Crofty. Less congestion means fewer immediate threats, but the wet is still treacherous. Anyone can spin if they push too hard."

Croft: "Looking at Tsunoda — P14, keeping it smooth, carefully navigating the slippery surface. And Iwasa, the rookie, P17, doing everything right to stay out of trouble."
Brundle: "That’s exactly what Honda needs today. Survival is the name of the game — every lap on track is a victory in conditions like this."

Croft: "Up front, the Ferraris are gradually pulling a small gap. Leclerc just ahead of Hamilton as they make their way through the first sector, still cautiously pushing the pace."
Brundle: "Yes, and even with fewer cars in the midfield, the spray is still blinding. Tsunoda and Iwasa have to remain laser-focused."

Race Control: "Track conditions remain extremely slippery. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution through Turns 2–11."

LAP 5

Croft: Leclerc leads Hamilton cleanly through Turn 1… both Ferraris looking composed in the wet, Martin."
Brundle: "Yes, David, they’re absolutely gliding through these slippery conditions — the intermediate tires are working well so far, but it’s touch-and-go out there."

Croft: "Russell is right on Verstappen’s tail as they head through the Esses! This could get very interesting."
Brundle: "Look at that! Mercedes versus Red Bull — neither wants to give an inch. The spray is blinding, David, and they’re side by side through Turn 7!"

Croft: "It’s inches, Martin — Russell’s trying the inside into 9, Verstappen holds the line… oh, a little slide from Max!"
Brundle: "Yes, he’s lost a touch of rear grip there. This is classic wet racing tension — one mistake and it’s lights out."

Croft: "Meanwhile, further back, the midfield is chaos! Tsunoda carefully threading between Lawson and Albon — he’s P14, just keeping it tidy. And Iwasa, the rookie, holding P17, Martin — very composed under extreme pressure."
Brundle: "Absolutely, Crofty. If these two Honda drivers can stay on track, every lap they survive in this storm is a win. It’s about brains over brawn today."

Croft: "And the Ferraris are starting to pull a small gap — Leclerc half a second over Hamilton as they approach Spoon Curve. Russell and Verstappen still wheel-to-wheel, spray flying everywhere. This is wet-weather masterclass from the top teams."
Brundle: "I can’t stress enough how treacherous this is. One slip, one touch of the curb, and it’s all over. And look at Tsunoda — smart, measured, avoiding the drama. Honda needs more of this if they want points today."

Race Control: "Track conditions remain variable. Standing water reported in Sectors 2 and 3. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution.": "And we’re green again! Leclerc leads Hamilton cleanly through Turn 1… both Ferraris looking composed in the wet, Martin."
Brundle: "Yes, David, they’re absolutely gliding through these slippery conditions — the soft tires are working well so far, but it’s touch-and-go out there."

Croft: "Russell is right on Verstappen’s tail as they head through the Esses! This could get very interesting."
Brundle: "Look at that! Mercedes versus Red Bull — neither wants to give an inch. The spray is blinding, David, and they’re side by side through Turn 7!"

Croft: "It’s inches, Martin — Russell’s trying the inside into 9, Verstappen holds the line… oh, a little slide from Max!"
Brundle: "Yes, he’s lost a touch of rear grip there. This is classic wet racing tension — one mistake and it’s lights out."

Croft: "Meanwhile, further back, the midfield is chaos! Tsunoda carefully threading between Lawson and Albon — he’s P14, just keeping it tidy. And Iwasa, the rookie, holding P17, Martin — very composed under extreme pressure."
Brundle: "Absolutely, Crofty. If these two Honda drivers can stay on track, every lap they survive in this storm is a win. It’s about brains over brawn today."

Croft: "And the Ferraris are starting to pull a small gap — Leclerc half a second over Hamilton as they approach Spoon Curve. Russell and Verstappen still wheel-to-wheel, spray flying everywhere. This is wet-weather masterclass from the top teams."
Brundle: "I can’t stress enough how treacherous this is. One slip, one touch of the curb, and it’s all over. And look at Tsunoda — smart, measured, avoiding the drama. Honda needs more of this if they want points today."

Race Control: "Track conditions remain variable. Standing water reported in Sectors 2 and 3. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution."

LAP 11

Croft: "And it’s heating up at the front! Russell and Verstappen are wheel-to-wheel through the back section, trying to take advantage in the wet, Martin."
Brundle: "Yes, David, both of them are pushing the limit here. The spray is crazy, and one tiny misjudgment could end their race — and that’s exactly what’s about to happen!"

Croft: "Oh no! Turn 13! Russell locks up, runs wide… and shunts straight into Verstappen! Both cars off — they’re out!"
Brundle: "That’s huge! Neither will continue. Classic wet weather chaos, David. You just cannot be that close at 200 kph in these conditions."

Croft: "Safety car is out immediately to clear the debris. This completely shakes up the order at Suzuka. Midfield now has a chance to capitalize."
Brundle: "Exactly. And look at Tsunoda — he’s P14 before the chaos, now moving up as everyone scrambles. Iwasa also benefits slightly, P17 into P16. Survival is key for Honda right now."

Croft: "Up front, Leclerc and Hamilton now lead comfortably under the safety car, managing pace and tires. The track is still treacherous; any restart will be very tense."
Brundle: "This is exactly the kind of race where the midfield can really score if they keep it clean. For Honda, staying on track through this chaos is everything."

LAP 13

Croft: "The rain is really coming down now, Martin! Track conditions have gone from tricky to treacherous while the safety car is out."
Brundle: "Yes, David, it’s a complete deluge. This is exactly when tire strategy becomes critical. Teams have to read the conditions perfectly."

Croft: "And here comes Honda! Both Tsunoda and Iwasa into the pits for full wets — a sensible call given how much water is now standing on the track."
Brundle: "Absolutely. Smart move from Honda. Other drivers, like Colapinto and Lindblad, are gambling, staying out on intermediates, hoping to gain positions."

LAP 15 - Safety Car IN

Croft: "Safety car in, we’re back to green! But oh no — Turn 1! Colapinto can’t control it, runs straight on into the escape road… and Lindblad follows him! Both out instantly!"
Brundle: "That’s the danger of staying out too long on the wrong tires. Once the grip disappears, there’s nowhere to go. Another safety car needed, David — Suzuka in the wet is pure chaos!"

Croft: "Tsunoda and Iwasa now back in clean air after their pit stops. They’re safely behind the safety car, while everyone else is trying to recover from that Turn 1 carnage."
Brundle: "Exactly. Honda have played this perfectly — staying out of trouble, on the right tires. This could be their moment to move into points once the restart finally comes."

Race Control: "Safety car deployed

LAP 31

Croft: "We’re into Lap 31 and the rain is relentless, Martin! The track is absolutely treacherous through these fast-flowing sections."
Brundle: "Yes, David, anyone out there in the spray is on a knife-edge. Every braking zone is a gamble, and one small mistake can end your race."

Croft: "And there it is! Lawson loses it at Regner 2 — the car spins violently into the barriers and is out of the race!"
Brundle: "That’s huge! The impact has left debris on the racing line, and with conditions this bad, Race Control has no choice — the safety car is coming out immediately."

Croft: "Tsunoda and Iwasa navigate the chaos perfectly. Tsunoda holds P8, Iwasa P12. Honda have avoided the drama so far and are reaping the benefits."
Brundle: "Exactly. They’ve been smart all race, keeping the car on the track, and now the safety car compresses the field. This could be a big opportunity for the midfield once racing resumes."

Croft: "Up front, the Ferraris are now safely behind the safety car, managing pace and tires. The rest of the field is bunched up, ready for the restart once the track allows."
Brundle: "This is exactly what we expected from Suzuka in the wet — constant chaos. For Honda, staying calm and avoiding mistakes has put them in the perfect position to capitalize."

Race Control: "Safety car deployed.

LAP 47

Croft: "We’re into Lap 47 and the rain has eased slightly, but the track is still treacherous, Martin. And here comes Tsunoda — he’s closing in on the car ahead!"
Brundle: "Yes, David, this is exactly where a masterclass is shown. Wet conditions, full commitment, and he’s not backing off — this is calculated bravery."

Croft: "Look at this! Tsunoda on the outside, then the inside, sliding through the spray… and he completes a double overtake at 130R! Pushing past two cars in one sweeping move!"
Brundle: "Absolutely sensational! That’s what wet-weather skill looks like — reading the grip, controlling the slides, and committing when others are hesitating. This is pure genius from Tsunoda."

Croft: "I can’t believe it! From mid-pack to P6, all in one corner! The crowd at Suzuka must be going absolutely wild!"
Brundle: "And don’t forget the rookie, Iwasa — holding P11 behind him. Honda have played the long game perfectly today. Patience, composure, and now heroics on the track. Could be double points up for grabs here"

Croft: "Up front, Leclerc is still leading, but look at the shake-up in the midfield. Tsunoda’s move could be decisive for points and championship momentum."
Brundle: "Exactly, David. In races like this, skill in the wet counts for everything. Tsunoda just put himself firmly in the points — and what a performance in front of his home fans!"

LAP 51

Croft: "Lap 51 and we’re into the final stages! Tsunoda is right behind Gasly now, Martin, looking for a way past."
Brundle: "Yes, David, he’s been patient all race, reading the grip, biding his time. Spoon Curve is tricky in the wet — but Tsunoda loves these conditions."

Croft: "And he goes! Around the outside into Spoon Curve — Tsunoda completes the move cleanly! That’s another position gained for Honda, up into P5!"
Brundle: "Absolutely brilliant! Wet-weather precision and nerves of steel. Tsunoda’s timing is perfect — Gasly had no answer. That’s a masterclass in overtaking."

Croft: "The crowd at Suzuka is going wild! Honda really showing what they can do when the rain comes down."
Brundle: "Exactly, David. Tsunoda has combined patience, precision, and bravery. This is why you never write off a home hero in the wet."

LAP 52

Croft: "And on the very next lap, disaster for Bottas at Degner 2! He spins on the wet line and drops back through the field."
Brundle: "Yes, David, that’s a huge opportunity for Iwasa! He’s right behind, P10, and now he can capitalize without having to force a risky overtake."

Croft: "Iwasa slips through perfectly! No contact, cleanly past Bottas — up into P9! Rookie on the rise here in front of his home crowd."
Brundle: "That’s exactly the kind of opportunistic driving you need in these conditions. Iwasa stayed alert, avoided the drama, and now Honda have both cars in the points."

Croft: "Tsunoda P5, Iwasa P9 — after a chaotic wet Suzuka, Honda have turned survival into a brilliant result."
Brundle: "And it all comes down to composure, skill, and making the right calls. Home fans will be ecstatic!"

AFTER THE RACE

Croft: "And what a finish for Honda here in Japan! Tsunoda P5, Iwasa P9 — after everything today, that is a huge result!"
Brundle: "Absolutely, David. The team has been through a rollercoaster — formation lap chaos, multiple safety cars, relentless rain — and they’ve brought both cars home in the points. You can feel the emotion already."

Race Radio – Tsunoda :

Rennie: "Checkered flag Yuki. Checkered flag. That's P5. P5. Checkered flag mate. Brilliant race Yuki. Well Done. P5."                                                                                                         Tsunoda: "Oh… that was insane. YESSSSS! HAHA! I can’t believe we did it. P5 at home… we stayed calm, kept it clean. LETSS GOOO. HAHA! I’m so proud of the team!"
Rennie: "You smashed it today, Yuki. Perfect driving, maximum points, home fans are going to remember this. Well done!"
Tsunoda: "Thank you… this one stays with me forever. YESSS!"

Race Radio – Iwasa :
Iwasa: "P9… I can’t believe we scored points after all that chaos. Thank you, team, for the strategy — I just focused on keeping the car on track."
Shovlin: "Checkered Flag. P9. P9. You did everything right, Ayumu. First points at Suzuka, rookie driving with nerves of steel — everyone is incredibly proud of you."
Iwasa: "This… this is amazing. Honda at home, we made it.                                                                                                                                                                                                          Shovlin: "Enjoy it mate, great race."

Croft: "You can hear it in their voices, Martin — pure joy and relief. Honda have turned what could have been a nightmare into a dream result at Suzuka."
Brundle: "Exactly. Every wet-weather skill, every smart decision in the pits, every careful lap — it all added up. The team, the drivers, the fans — this is the emotion of Formula 1 at its best."

Croft: "A masterclass in survival, strategy, and composure. Tsunoda and Iwasa have done their country proud today."
Brundle: "And for Honda, after returning as a full constructor, this is the kind of weekend that will be remembered forever. Home crowd ecstatic, team euphoric — what a race!"

2026 JAPANESE GP FULL RESULTS 

The paddock arrives in Sakhir under the desert sun, a complete contrast to the chaos of Suzuka. Where Japan was rain-soaked and unpredictable, Bahrain is dry, abrasive, and brutally honest — a circuit that exposes car performance, tire management, and race pace.

For Honda, momentum is cautiously building. The emotional high of a double points finish at Suzuka has lifted morale, but Bahrain presents a very different challenge. Long straights, heavy braking zones, and rear-tire degradation threaten a car still short on outright pace.

Tsunoda comes in confident after his Suzuka masterclass, now seen as a genuine midfield threat when conditions align. Iwasa, fresh off another points scoring-weekend, faces another learning weekend — Bahrain’s traction zones will test his consistency and tire management.

Up front, Red Bull arrive as favorites, their race pace strong and predictable, while Mercedes and Aston look to respond. The midfield is tightly packed, and with no weather chaos expected. Honda know points will have to be earned on merit this time.

Different track. Different test.
Suzuka was about survival.
Bahrain will be about truth.

QUALIFYING