The Japanese Grand Prix began with polesitter Verstappen holding the lead and controlling the race ahead of the McLarens. Contact on the opening lap caused several issues, and Sergio Pérez fell back after front-wing damage before later retiring. McLaren kept both cars in podium contention, with Piastri taking his first Formula One podium. Through the middle and late stages Verstappen managed the tyres cleanly, set the fastest lap and won. Norris finished second and Piastri third. The result secured the 2023 Constructors' Championship for Red Bull and confirmed the team's return to dominant form at Suzuka.