F1 2019 Japanese GP: Race Day as it happened!

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE COVERAGE OF THE 2019 FORMULA 1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX. 

As the Formula 1 season nears its conclusion, the paddock is embarking on one of its yearly highlights this weekend with the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

The race has established itself as a firm favourite on the calendar thanks to its challenging track layout that punishes mistakes, its steep history, and vibrant fanbase that makes each year a memorable event.

Lewis Hamilton arrives in Japan leading the drivers' championship by 73 points from Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas, meaning that while he cannot wrap up a sixth world title at Suzuka, he is likely to move to within touching distance this weekend. Mercedes can, however, secure its sixth straight constructors' championship this weekend by outscoring Ferrari by 14 points.

Ferrari will be hopeful of its chances of making Mercedes wait a little bit longer to toast its success, having won three of the last four races. The team has been moving to clear the air after tensions brewed between teammates Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel in Russia amid team orders, but insists that all is well in the camp.

The other big talking point so far this weekend has been the weather, with super typhoon Hagibis making landfall on Saturday in Japan and causing subsequent disruption.

As a result, all track action was cancelled on Saturday, with qualifying being postponed until Sunday. It now takes place at 1000 local (0200 BST), ahead of lights out for the race at 1410 local (0610).