Sebastian Vettel
Reuters

Defending champion Sebastian Vettel comes into the Japanese Grand Prix as the favourite, after winning four consecutive races at the Suzuka Circuit in the last four years. The Red Bull driver is also edging towards his fourth championship title in a row.

Where to Watch Live

The first practice session of the Japanese Grand Prix starts at 1:50am BST, with Sky Sports F1 providing live coverage in the UK. Real-time internet updates are available on the Live Timing section of the sport's official website. Live coverage of the second practice session starts at 5.55am BST.

Track Facts

  • Circuit Name: Suzuka Circuit
  • First F1 Race: 1963
  • Circuit Length: 5.807 km
  • Number of Laps: 53
  • Race Distance: 307.573 km
  • Fastest Lap: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull) 1:35.774
  • Most Wins: Michael Schumacher (6)
  • 2012 Winner: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)
  • 2012 Pole: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)

Drivers' Championship Review

Vettel is leading the drivers championship leader board and is at the top of the table with 272 points, with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso in the second spot trailing the Red Bull's driver by 77 points. Lotus' Kimi Raikkonen sits in the third spot with 167 points.

British star and Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is six points behind Raikkonen in fourth spot with Vettel's Red Bull teammate Mark Webber in fifth with 130 points. Felipe Massa is seventh and is struggling with 89 points.

Constructor's Championship Review

Red Bull have been dominating the constructor's championship as they sit on top with 402 points. Ferrari are second, trailing the leaders by 118 points. Mercedes are third with one point behind Ferrari while Lotus are fourth with 239 points. McLaren are struggling in the fifth place with 89 points.

Weather News

The weather forecast today in Japan is partly cloudy. Temperatures will be in the high 29C with a chance of rain.