Our 2026 Japanese GP predictions
Digest
The podcast covers significant F1 news, including Jonathan Wheatley's departure from Audi and strong rumors linking him to Aston Martin, as well as Adrian Newey's role change. Max Verstappen's disqualification from a Nürburgring race due to a tire infringement is discussed. The hosts review new F1 car liveries from V-Carb, Haas, and Mercedes, offering varied opinions. Extensive predictions are made for the Japanese Grand Prix, covering potential surprises, major disappointments (Pierre Gasly, Kimi Antonelli), pole position contenders (George Russell, Kimi Antonelli), top three finishers (Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, George Russell), and race winners (George Russell, Lewis Hamilton). "Crazy picks" and listener-engaged predictions are also shared, alongside speculation about Aston Martin's performance and a brief mention of family predictions.
Outlines
F1 News and Excitement for the Japanese Grand Prix
The podcast begins by discussing the anticipation for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka. Key F1 news includes Jonathan Wheatley's departure from Audi and strong speculation about his move to Aston Martin, potentially impacting the team's leadership alongside Adrian Newey's evolving role. Max Verstappen's disqualification from a Nürburgring race due to a tire violation is also covered.
F1 Car Liveries and Japanese Grand Prix Predictions
The hosts review and comment on the latest F1 car liveries, praising V-Carb and Haas while having mixed feelings about Mercedes' new design. The majority of the discussion focuses on detailed predictions for the Japanese Grand Prix, including potential "good surprises" (Red Bull, McLaren), "big flops" (Pierre Gasly, Kimi Antonelli), pole position contenders (George Russell, Kimi Antonelli), top three finishers (Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, George Russell), and the race winner (George Russell, Lewis Hamilton). "Crazy picks," loophole predictions, and Patreon-exclusive predictions are also shared.
Race Start Observations and Family Predictions
The conversation touches upon the unusual number of non-starters in recent races and further speculation regarding Aston Martin's potential performance, possibly linked to Jonathan Wheatley. Family members share their predictions for the Japanese Grand Prix, offering different perspectives on potential winners and podiums, with a notable focus on George Russell and Lewis Hamilton.
Keywords
Jonathan Wheatley
Former Audi team principal, heavily rumored to be joining Aston Martin, potentially as team principal, following Adrian Newey's role change.
Adrian Newey
Legendary F1 designer shifting his role within Aston Martin, focusing on design rather than team principal duties.
Max Verstappen
Formula 1 World Champion disqualified from a Nürburgring race due to a team tire infringement, despite a dominant performance.
F1 Liveries
Recent car designs revealed by V-Carb, Haas, and Mercedes, with mixed reception for the latter.
Japanese Grand Prix
Upcoming F1 race at Suzuka, a focal point for driver and team performance predictions.
Kimi Antonelli
Young driver subject to predictions for the Japanese Grand Prix, seen as both a potential "big flop" and a pole position contender.
George Russell
Mercedes driver, known as "Mr. Saturday," predicted to be a strong contender for pole position and race win at the Japanese Grand Prix.
McLaren F1 Team
Formula 1 team expected to perform well at the Japanese Grand Prix, with Lando Norris predicted for podium finishes.
Ferrari F1 Team
Formula 1 team with drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton predicted to secure podium places at the Japanese Grand Prix.
Q&A
What is the latest news regarding Jonathan Wheatley and Aston Martin?
Jonathan Wheatley has left his role as team principal at Audi after just two races. He is heavily rumored to be joining Aston Martin, potentially as their new team principal, following Adrian Newey's shift in responsibilities.
Why was Max Verstappen disqualified from the Nürburgring race?
Max Verstappen was disqualified from the Nürburgring 4-hour race because his team used an extra set of tires than permitted. This occurred despite Verstappen achieving a dominant victory.
Which new F1 car liveries have been recently revealed and how were they received?
V-Carb and Haas have revealed new liveries that have been highly praised. Mercedes also released a new livery, which received a more mixed reception.
What are the "good surprise" predictions for the Japanese Grand Prix?
Both hosts predict that Red Bull and McLaren will perform better than expected at the Japanese Grand Prix, with Red Bull bringing upgrades and McLaren unlocking more performance.
Who are the predicted "big flops" for the Japanese Grand Prix?
The hosts have predicted Pierre Gasly and Kimi Antonelli as potential "big flops" for the Japanese Grand Prix.
Who is predicted to take pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix?
George Russell is predicted to take pole position, leveraging his qualifying prowess. Kimi Antonelli is also considered a strong contender for pole position.
What are the predictions for the winner of the Japanese Grand Prix?
Multiple predictions favor George Russell and Lewis Hamilton to win the Japanese Grand Prix, suggesting confidence in Mercedes' potential race pace.
Show Notes
We're back, with one final set of predictions before the enforced month-long break. And Tommy's joining us from Portugal for loopholes deluxe, while Matt's recent concussion has scrambled his own choices!
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