Japanese Grand Prix 2014 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lewis Hamilton claimed a poignant victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, a race overshadowed by Jules Bianchi's horrific accident that would ultimately claim his life. Hamilton had controlled proceedings from the front, defeating Rosberg and Vettel, but the race was red-flagged with 14 laps remaining after Bianchi crashed into a recovery vehicle in treacherous wet conditions at Suzuka's fearsome Dunlop curve. The sport was left in shock as the young Frenchman sustained catastrophic injuries.

The race itself had been challenging with heavy rain creating hazardous conditions, raising questions about whether it should have started or been red-flagged earlier. Hamilton managed the conditions expertly to lead throughout, but Bianchi's accident at the same corner where Adrian Sutil had crashed laps earlier cast a dark shadow over everything. The tragedy would lead to significant safety improvements including the introduction of the Halo device, though Bianchi would tragically succumb to his injuries nine months later.

Hamilton's victory extended his championship lead, but the celebrations were muted given Bianchi's condition. The Japanese Grand Prix would be remembered primarily for the tragedy rather than racing, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in motorsport. Hamilton's championship charge continued, but the sport mourned a talented young driver whose promise would never be fulfilled.