F1 Japanese GP Practice: Doohan Crash Disrupts Suzuka Action

In-Depth Analysis

## Suzuka Practice Sees Drama Unfold

The opening day of the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix weekend provided plenty of talking points. In FP1, Lando Norris continued McLaren's strong form by topping the timesheets ahead of George Russell and Charles Leclerc. Eyes were also on Yuki Tsunoda, making his debut for the main Red Bull team at his home race after replacing Liam Lawson. He adapted quickly, finishing P6, only a tenth behind Max Verstappen, showing a mature approach despite some edgy moments.

## FP2 Disrupted by Crashes

Second practice proved chaotic. Less than ten minutes in, Alpine's Jack Doohan experienced a frightening high-speed crash heading into Turn 1. Having missed FP1 for reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa, Doohan was looking to maximise his track time but lost control abruptly, spinning into the barriers. The impact caused extensive damage to the Alpine, ripping off at least one wheel and requiring significant barrier repairs, leading to a prolonged red flag. Doohan confirmed he was okay over the radio but was checked by medical staff. Initial analysis pointed towards a potential car fault, possibly with the DRS remaining open on turn-in.

Later in the session, Fernando Alonso also found trouble, losing control at the Degner curves and beaching his Aston Martin in the gravel, triggering another red flag.

These interruptions severely curtailed running for all teams, impacting data collection and setup work ahead of qualifying and the race. Williams also encountered issues, with Carlos Sainz reporting his car was "bouncing like crazy" after just one lap in FP2.

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FAQ

- **Q: Who was fastest in Japanese GP Practice 1?

- **Q: What happened to Jack Doohan in Practice 2?

- **Q: Why was Practice 2 stopped multiple times?

Takeaways

**Alpine's Race Against Time:** The team faces a significant repair job on Jack Doohan's car before qualifying.
**Setup Challenges:** Limited running, especially in FP2, means teams have less data to optimize car setup for Suzuka's demanding layout.
**Tsunoda Adapting Well:** Yuki Tsunoda's initial performance in the Red Bull suggests he is coping well with the pressure of the move and his home race.
**McLaren & Mercedes Competitive:** Both teams showed strong pace in FP1, setting the stage for a potential challenge to Red Bull.

Discussion

The disruptions in FP2 could shake up the grid for qualifying. Will Alpine manage to repair Doohan's car in time? How will the limited running affect race strategies?

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Sources

BBC Sport - F1 Practice LIVE: Japanese Grand Prix 2025 times, results & radio from Suzuka RacingNews365 - Doohan destroys Alpine in colossal Japanese GP practice crash Autosport.com - F1 Japanese GP live commentary and updates – FP2

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