The circus on wheels returned to Japan after an absence of 2 years. 2019’s Japanese GP saw Valtteri Bottas claiming the top spot and Sebastian Vettel holding off Lewis Hamilton to round off the podium places. A lot of excitement was brewing as F1 drivers itched to get back on the incredibly fast track at Suzuka.

However, it wasn’t the ideal start to the weekend. Just like Singapore, the Suzuka track was in treacherous condition because of the heavy downpour. Haas’ Kevin Magnussen was the first to take the center stage, followed by home hero, Yuki Tsunoda. The AlphaTauri driver complained of a lot of standing water in Sector 1 as he struggled to find any pace.

Despite the soaking wet conditions, it was the wily old fox, Fernando Alonso, who looked the part. The Spaniard finished three-tenths ahead of the Ferrari duo Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc.

We got to see very little of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Both the drivers could only manage 4 laps each during the whole session. This can be a huge weekend for the Flying Dutchman, as he has the opportunity to wrap up the title. The reigning world champion, to defend his title, needs to win the race with the fastest lap point.

Coming into the race, Max Verstappen said, “I need a perfect weekend to clinch the title here, but to be honest, I’m not really thinking about it too much.”

“It would be very nice if it happens here. But if it doesn’t happen here, I will be more in favor [to win the title] the next race.”

Read More: Fernando Alonso Relives Having “None of It” Against 7X F1 Champion

The orange army would want it to happen in Japan, but, more importantly, they would want to see an action-packed race. For that, the rain would have to ease off.

Fans react as Fernando Alonso aces FP1 and possibly sets the El Plan in motion

Initially, fans expected Max to turn up the heat on Day 1. However, Fernando Alonso surprised everyone with a stonking lap.

WATCH THIS STORY: Rare 12-year-old image of 2023 Aston Martin Lineup surfaces as Fernando Alonso announces bizarre shift.

It was one of those sessions when Fernando Alonso rolled back the years. But, he can expect a stiffer test in the upcoming sessions. Will he be able to get his first podium of the season at Suzuka?