Hamilton and Verstappen missing from FIA list ahead of Japanese GP

The FIA has released the list of drivers set to attend the press conference ahead of tomorrow’s media day, with the seven-time and four-time world champions notably absent as they will instead fulfil other media commitments elsewhere.

The first batch of drivers set to speak to the media is scheduled for 12:30 local time (03:30 GMT), featuring Franco Colapinto, Lance Stroll and Charles Leclerc. The second group will follow at 13:00 local time (04:00 GMT), with Oliver Bearman, Lando Norris and Liam Lawson also facing the cameras.

As for the traditional team principals’ press conference, it will take place the following day at 13:30 local time (04:30 GMT), with Ayao Komatsu, Koji Watanabe and Andrea Stella answering questions from the media.

European fans will once again have to set their alarms early for the third flyaway race of the season, following back-to-back trips to Melbourne and Shanghai, with another demanding schedule in store for the Suzuka weekend.

On Friday, FP1 is set for 03:30–04:30 CET, followed by FP2 from 07:00 to 08:00 CET. Saturday begins with FP3 at 03:30–04:30 CET, before qualifying takes place later in the morning from 07:00 to 08:00 CET.

The early starts continue on Sunday, with the race getting underway at 07:00 CET.