F1 Today | Suzuka crowns new leader as Verstappen readies shock F1 exit

The young Italian started from pole for the second race in a row, but a poor getaway saw him drop to fifth by Turn 1.

However, a perfectly timed safety car following Oliver Bearman’s crash played into his hands, allowing him to rejoin as the race leader at a moment when only he and Lewis Hamilton still had to pit.

From that point on, Antonelli never looked back, setting a relentless pace and controlling the race to take a dominant victory. Meanwhile, his team-mate slipped out of the podium places, also losing the championship lead - now firmly in Antonelli’s hands.

Verstappen has admitted he faces a major decision over his future in the coming weeks, after revealing he has “a lot to think about” following Saturday’s qualifying - even hinting that retirement is on the table.

Speaking after the race, the Dutchman made it clear his focus is now on what comes next rather than anything off-track. He explained that the coming weeks and months will be crucial in deciding what he truly wants for the future.

Verstappen openly acknowledged that there is more to life than Formula 1 and that other paths remain an option. He also revealed his intention to take part in qualifying races for the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring.

Looking ahead, he pointed to the upcoming April break as a key moment for discussions around potential rule changes before Miami. He stressed that improvements are urgently needed, expressing hope that the cars will become more driveable, while describing the race as largely mirroring qualifying in terms of action, aside from a minor gain in positions.