The 2025 Japanese Grand Prix weekend has continued to be disrupted by grass fires, with FP3 red-flagged twice due to the dry grass setting alight. Following the session, Williams team principal James Vowles has requested additional preventative measures from the FIA before they begin qualifying.
Despite efforts already being made to prevent the fires, including the wetting, cutting, and removal of the grass around certain areas of the track, it’s safe to say this hasn’t fixed the ongoing issue.
Saturday’s final practice session was red-flagged just minutes after it began when grass caught fire between the hairpin and spoon curve section of the track. Then once again, bringing the session to an early close, the grass set alight ahead of the famous 130R.
“While we continue to look into the fires that occurred during FP2, our focus before tomorrow will be on taking preemptive measures,” a statement from the FIA read.
“The grass has been cut as short as possible, and loose, dried grass has been removed from affected areas.
“Prior to tomorrow’s sessions, the grass will be dampened, and specific response teams will be stationed around the track.”
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 following the final practice session on Saturday, Vowles confirmed that teams had been in contact with the FIA about settling the ongoing issue.
“So definitely, we spoke to the FIA at the end of that one,” he said. “I mean, no one wants these, and it’s the same for everyone. It’s the best way I can put it—it’s down to us to make sure that we don’t get caught out.”
Lawn mowing in progress at the Suzuka circuit
Photo by: Kan Namekawa
When asked if changing the skid plate is a realistic option, he dismissed the idea.
“No, no, we can’t change any of that. No, I think… wetting the track, definitely. But I think they have to look at other measures before we get into qualifying.”
There were four red flags during FP2 on the Friday ahead of the race, two of which were caused by fires. This meant learnings from the session were few and far between for drivers who struggled to get time out on the tarmac. Max Verstappen, for example, only managed nine laps.
This isn’t the first time something like this has happened. Last year’s Chinese Grand Prix experienced a similar situation. Chemicals were spread over the grass to prevent fires, with this likely the solution this weekend.
