Even though Suzuka in Japan is one of the most well-known courses in the world, it didn't provide much excitement on Sunday, as the top six cars on the grid finished exactly as they had begun.
We learned more about the drivers, teams, and vehicles as the 2025 season started to take shape, but the race was dull due to the difficulties of passing, but it had some consequences. These are the weekend's key talking points.
Sport has the power to astound you, and Max Verstappen's determination to earn pole position in qualifying was absolutely remarkable.
Despite his detractors, Verstappen won pole position and went on to win the race on Sunday, much to Red Bull's joy.
People should pay attention when one of the best drivers on the road commends a colleague.
This RB-21 is far from flawless. The vehicle is said to be difficult to operate, therefore Red Bull has had trouble finding the perfect second driver. Verstappen's tastes are reportedly taken into consideration while designing it, and his ability to use the equipment to suit his needs is commendable.
Verstappen currently trails Lando Norris by only one point in the drivers' championship after having one of his finest weekends ever, which included one of his best qualifying drives ever. In addition to expertly handling his tires, he skillfully knocked his rivals away, defeating Norris by 1.4 seconds.
Verstappen is still a driver that is both feared and revered, having been the first to win in Suzuka for the fourth consecutive year.
It made qualifying even more crucial because of how difficult it is to pass at Suzuka. Verstappen managed to qualify flawlessly, and the McLarens began the race behind his Red Bull.
Even though Norris ended in second place on Sunday, he was never able to get close enough to DRS to put pressure on the Red Bull.
Given their vehicle's speed, McLaren's approach was questioned. In order to have fresher tires for the latter portion of the race, team principal Andrea Stella explained why they didn't try an undercut or keep Norris out longer.
Due to the difficulties of overtaking, they chose their course of action and accepted the result. But you can't help but wonder whether they could have won three straight games with a trick.
Isack Hadjar gave a demonstration of his skills by finishing in eighth place, earning his team four points and his first of the year.
It would have been reasonable to assume that Hamilton Senior was inflating the French-Algerian's abilities when his father, Anthony Hamilton, spoke highly of Hadjar despite the fact that he spun out of his maiden race in Australia.
Despite seat belt frustration in qualifying, he secured P7 ahead of Hamilton. On Sunday, he maximized his car's potential, finishing P8, just behind Hamilton.
His improving performance, especially at Suzuka, raises questions about a potential second seat at Red Bull. Could Christian Horner make another swap?