WEEKEND WARM-UP: Anticipation builds as F1 makes long-awaited return to Japan

Suzuka returns to host the 2022 Japanese Grand Prix, with Formula 1 returning to the island after two years away – and the anticipation is palpable ahead of the weekend's action.

The famous and fan-favourite Japanese circuit returns, its figure-of-eight layout to be raced on with a new generation of F1 cars – but one driver also says goodbye to his favourite venue this weekend. That's Sebastian Vettel, who won the title here in 2011 and has four Japanese GP wins to his name.

READ MORE: Vettel says he’d ‘seriously consider’ one-off F1 return at favourite track Suzuka, as he describes emotions ahead of final Japanese GP

Vettel however did hint that he wants to return to Japan in an F1 car… while numerous other drivers commented on the incredible fans, their unique gifts, costumes and warm welcome.

Yuki Tsunoda finally gets his chance to appear in front of a home crowd, while Max Verstappen hopes to do Honda proud by securing his second drivers' championship, and becoming the 11th driver to do so at Suzuka.

Join Lawrence Barretto and Laura Winter, and watch Weekend Warm-Up in the video player above.