Tsunoda Headlines a Blockbuster Japanese GP as F1 Markets Shift Post-Shanghai

The Formula 1 season is charging into one of its most iconic and atmospheric circuits—Suzuka—for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, and the drama couldn’t be more intense. With shock announcements, high-stakes performances, and tight title races, F1 fans and punters are in for a thrilling ride this weekend.

Following a fascinating race in Shanghai, all eyes are now on Japan, where Yuki Tsunoda will make his highly-anticipated Red Bull Racing debut. The F1 markets have responded swiftly to the news, and with fresh dynamics on the grid, now is the perfect time to dive into the F1 betting action.

The Chinese Grand Prix saw another close battle at the front, with Max Verstappen and Lando Norris trading fastest laps throughout the weekend. Verstappen managed a questionable finish in fourth, with Piastri taking the top podium spot with his teammate, Lando Norris, in second.

Red Bull’s decision to promote Yuki Tsunoda from their sister team just days after Shanghai has turned the spotlight squarely onto Suzuka. Liam Lawson, who struggled to deliver in Melbourne and Shanghai, has been sent back to the Racing Bulls, and Tsunoda has been handed the keys to the mighty RB21—just in time for his home Grand Prix.

For those following the F1 odds, this move introduces a layer of unpredictability into the upcoming race. Will the Suzuka crowd witness Tsunoda rise to the occasion?

After four years with Red Bull’s junior team, many doubted Tsunoda would ever get the main seat. But after a strong start to the 2025 season and an underperforming Lawson, the stars have aligned.

Speaking at a Honda event, Tsunoda expressed both humility and excitement:

“To be honest, I never expected to be racing for Red Bull at the Japanese Grand Prix. It feels like fate. My priority is to first understand the car... and if that leads to a podium finish, that would be incredible.”

He’s got the simulator laps under his belt and has completed seat fittings, but Suzuka will be his first time driving the RB21 in a live race. For punters watching the F1 betting scene, Tsunoda represents an exciting outside chance in markets like Top 6 Finish, Podium Finish, or even Fastest Lap, given his aggressive driving style and home track knowledge.

Suzuka is a fast-flowing, high-downforce circuit with a loyal fanbase and a rich history of title-defining races. McLaren are the favourites in the F1 markets, especially after the first and second finish in China.

Red Bull and Mercedes will be chasing hard, especially after Russel’s third place on the podium and Verstappen missing just missing it in fourth place in China. Verstappen has a 3  race record on this track, and if he wins a fourth time, he’ll be the first in history to do it. Keep an eye on Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. too—Ferrari have been quietly racking up valuable points and will be looking for a statement result.

With tyre wear and fuel strategy always a factor at Suzuka, the Total Race Time and Safety Car Appearance markets also offer great betting value for more advanced punters.

At Sportingbet, we’ve got you covered with the best F1 odds and markets. Whether you’re backing Verstappen for another win, banking on a home hero podium for Tsunoda, or testing your instincts with Matchups and Top Team bets, there’s a world of opportunity in the F1 betting landscape this weekend.

Popular markets include:

• Race Winner
  
  
• Podium Finish
  
  
• Lando Norris vs any other driver
  
  
• Which car will win the race?
  

The Japanese Grand Prix is already one of the most exciting weekends of the F1 calendar—but with Tsunoda’s Red Bull debut adding fuel to the fire, it’s shaping up to be unmissable. From title battles to emotional homecomings, Suzuka will deliver drama both on and off the track.

Ready to join the action? Explore all your F1 markets and get the best F1 odds with Sportingbet—your home of Formula 1 betting.