Suzuka Circuit is preparing for the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix; Large-scale asphalt renewal works have started on the track before the new Formula 1 season.

The Japan circuit has been home to F1 for many years and is considered one of the most difficult and favorite tracks among drivers. High speeds, technical configuration and variable weather conditions have repeatedly made Suzuka the venue for iconic championship moments.

The 2026 stage is scheduled for March 29 and will be the third stage in the season calendar.

The western part of the track, including the iconic Spoon Corner, is now completely closed. A new layer of asphalt was laid, which should change the properties of the coating.

The new surface is expected to have a low level of grip at the beginning of the weekend, but grip will gradually increase as the rubber accumulates; this can significantly affect the cars’ settings.

本日の #西コース路面張替え工事 pic.twitter.com/AbKkyGKgq9

— 鈴鹿サーキット Suzuka Circuit (@suzuka_event) December 27, 2025

Yuki Tsunoda admitted that on the eve of Red Bull’s official decision, he heard rumors that he would retain his place in Formula 1 within the Red Bull system, but the truth turned out to be completely different.

Before the last stage of the season in Abu Dhabi, it was announced that Isak Hajar will replace the Japanese in 2026. Racing Bulls duo will be Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad. As a result, Tsunoda will move into the role of Red Bull’s reserve and test driver at the start of the new era.

Tsunoda was informed about the team’s 2026 plans after the Qatar Grand Prix and, according to him, was already mentally preparing for his reserve role. But shortly before the official meeting, he heard completely different information.

“I was told of the decision after the race in Qatar, but it was not taken seriously at first,” Tsunoda said.

“I was prepared for this scenario, but the news was different from what I had heard before, so it surprised me.”

The Japanese also noted that the decision could change at the last minute:

“I heard before the briefing that the whole thing could literally be replayed. There were many reasons for this, of course. But when they told me I wouldn’t have a permanent position next year it didn’t feel like the end of the world.”

“Abu Dhabi was ahead, so I immediately focused on the next race.”

Despite the disappointment of moving to the reserve driver position, the driver hinted that his role at Red Bull could be broader than the standard job of reserve driver.

“There is a possibility that my duty will not be limited to simulator and reserve pilot status,” Tsunoda said.

I’ve already heard a few possible scenarios. “I’ll rest for now and then start preparing for next season.”

Haas team boss Ayao Komatsu said he did not rule out the possibility of attracting a driver linked to Toyota in the future, but stressed that the main criterion will always be results, not financial support.

Earlier this year, Toyota announced that it would be the title sponsor of Haas starting from the 2026 season. This was the next step in the development of cooperation between the parties, which began with a technical partnership more than a year ago.

At the same time, Komatsu denied the assumption that Toyota’s increased role was the beginning of a full takeover of the team. According to him, cooperation focuses primarily on staff development and exchange of experience.

When asked whether Toyota constantly raises the issue of driver performance in Formula 1, Komatsu answered in the affirmative.

“Yes, of course. One of Toyota’s many goals is to develop people, and pilots are part of that process,” he said.

Toyota has an extensive driver training program in various series, particularly the World Endurance Championship and Japanese Super Formula. However, Komatsu stressed that Haas was not ready to sacrifice athletic performance for the sake of partnership interests.

“What is important is speed and results. Everyone who gets behind the wheel of our car must be the best choice in terms of performance,” emphasized the team leader.