The Japanese Grand Prix 2026 marks the third race of the season and remains an important weekend for fans, as it is the final round before a five-week break ahead of the next race at Miami Grand Prix.
With the Middle East leg cancelled, Suzuka has become an even more special stop on the calendar, and the teams have ensured there is plenty to capture fans' attention that includes the special helmet of Lewis Hamilton and Pierre Gasly both drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese art.
Lewis Hamilton Japanese Grand Prix 2026 Helmet
Hamilton turned heads during Friday's practice sessions as he arrived in Ferrari red, sporting a striking white helmet accented with red and gold lines.
The design is inspired by Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with precious metals, where cracks are highlighted rather than hidden, symbolising resilience and beauty in imperfection.
Pierre Gasly Special Helmet for Japanese GP 2026
Gasly also embraced the theme, unveiling his own Kintsugi-inspired helmet featuring a white base with blue and golden detailing, adding another layer of cultural tribute to the Suzuka weekend.
Kintsugi, deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, celebrates flaws and imperfections, transforming damage into something more meaningful and beautiful. Both drivers' helmets reflect that philosophy, making them among the most eye-catching designs of the season.
On track, however, it was a quieter outing for Hamilton. Ferrari, seen as Mercedes' closest rival in the opening rounds, placed Charles Leclerc and Hamilton fifth and sixth in both practice sessions as Mercedes continued to set the pace.
There was also a moment of tension during Free Practice 1 involving Hamilton and Max Verstappen. The pair encountered each other at high speed through the 130R corner, with Verstappen forced to adjust his line while on a flying lap.
The incident was reviewed by the FIA stewards, who investigated Hamilton for potentially driving unnecessarily slowly. However, no further action was taken. The stewards noted that Ferrari had not warned Hamilton of Verstappen's approach, and that the Red Bull driver was able to pass safely without needing to take evasive action.
Other teams have also launched their special one-off livery for the Japanese Grand Prix 2026. The constructors leader Mercedes brought their 'wolf' livery 'unleashing the beast'.
On the other hand, Haas launched their Godzilla inspired livery for this weekend.
Meanwhile, Racing Bulls launched their special livery for Suzuka with 'cherry' themed design embracing the Japanese Cherry Blossom spring season.
The Japanese Grand Prix is set to unfold on March 29, and the qualifying session will be held on Saturday starting at 11:30 AM IST.