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via CrashFernando Alonso and Lance Stroll face grid penaltiesFernando Alonso and Lance Stroll have received significant grid penalties for the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with both Aston Martin drivers set to start from the back. The penalties are a result of taking new components for their cars, leading to a combined 45-place drop.
+ 3 moreThu 24 Sep · 14:37 UTC
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell tops FP2 in Baku ahead of team-mateGeorge Russell set the fastest time during the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit. He was followed closely by Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 13:21 UTC
via Motorsport.comJames Hinchcliffe: Williams F1 weight breakthrough brings "free lap time" in BakuJames Hinchcliffe has stated that Williams' achievement of reaching Formula 1's minimum weight limit with their upgraded FW48 will result in valuable 'free lap time' during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He explained that this weight reduction enhances overall performance, aiding in aspects like braking, traction, and tyre degradation without requiring any changes to the car's setup or driving style.
Despite the positive impact of the upgrades, Williams team principal James Vowles has tempered expectations, acknowledging that the team has faced a challenging season. He noted that mistakes made during the winter will continue to affect their performance, but he remains optimistic about making progress in the future as they aim to improve their position on the grid.
Thu 24 Sep · 13:09 UTC
via Motorsport WeekGeorge Russell tops practice session in BakuGeorge Russell achieved the fastest time in the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku. The session was marked by several incidents, highlighting the challenges teams faced on the track.
Thu 24 Sep · 13:05 UTC
via racer.comTechnical updates: 2026 Azerbaijan Grand PrixAt the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, McLaren, Red Bull, Williams, and Audi introduced significant technical upgrades. McLaren focused on enhancing the MCL40 with improvements to the sidepod inlets, engine cover, and rear suspension, while Red Bull's updates included a new floor geometry and sidepod design aimed at improving aerodynamic performance.
Williams also made notable changes with a new floor and revised brake ducts, while Audi submitted the most extensive list of upgrades, including a new floor and front wing. Other teams like Mercedes and Ferrari did not bring new parts this weekend, although Mercedes plans to introduce upgrades at the next race in Malaysia.
Thu 24 Sep · 13:00 UTC
via lightsoutblog.com2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Milestones and F1 Records Which Could Be BrokenThe 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, scheduled for September 26, marks the 1,164th race in Formula 1 history and the tenth event at Baku City Circuit. Notable milestones include Carlos Sainz, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen being the only drivers to have participated in every race at this venue. Liam Lawson will also reach the milestone of 50 Grand Prix starts during this event.
Several records are on the line, including Lando Norris aiming for his 50th podium finish and Mercedes potentially equalling Ferrari's record of 251 victories. Additionally, a sixth place finish for Carlos Sainz or Fernando Alonso would tie them with Felipe Massa for the most sixth place finishes in F1 history. Lewis Hamilton seeks to maintain his record of completing every lap at Baku, aiming for a total of 500 laps.
via RacingNews365Arvid Lindblad becomes first Baku casualty with costly red flagArvid Lindblad, driving for Racing Bulls, became the first casualty of the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix after crashing during Free Practice 2. The incident took place at the narrow Castle section, where Lindblad ran wide at Turn 8 and hit the wall, resulting in a red flag for the session.
Lindblad had shown promising pace, finishing eighth in Free Practice 1, but his crash ended his session prematurely. He expressed regret to his team, noting that he had clipped the wall by a small margin, and the team will assess any potential internal damage to the car after the session.
Thu 24 Sep · 12:28 UTC
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell leads Kimi Antonelli in FP2 in BakuGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing ahead of championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Russell's performance in Baku showcased his team's strong form ahead of the race weekend.+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 11:49 UTC
via Formula1.comWilliams eye Baku boost as every team's upgrades revealedMcLaren and Williams are among the teams bringing upgrades to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with McLaren debuting a range of aerodynamic enhancements including revised sidepod shapes and a new floor design. Red Bull also made minor adjustments to their car, while Audi introduced a comprehensive set of upgrades aimed at improving performance in the midfield battle.
Mercedes and Ferrari opted not to introduce any upgrades for this race, focusing instead on maximising their current packages. Williams, having not scored points since Monaco, is cautious about the impact of their new upgrades, while other teams like Alpine and Aston Martin did not submit any changes for this weekend.Thu 24 Sep · 10:45 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen tops final practice at Azerbaijan Grand PrixMax Verstappen achieved the fastest time in Free Practice 3 for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, benefiting from Red Bull's latest upgrade package. Meanwhile, Mercedes faced a challenging start to the weekend as the Formula 1 title race intensifies.
+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 10:42 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJolyon Palmer thinks Ferrari may have solved Lewis Hamilton's biggest gripe with the SF-26 in BakuJolyon Palmer has expressed optimism that Ferrari has addressed Lewis Hamilton's concerns regarding the SF-26's straight-line speed after a strong performance in the first practice session of the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Hamilton clocked in third, with Charles Leclerc close behind in fourth, while George Russell led the session.
Palmer noted that Ferrari's straight-line speed appeared competitive compared to Mercedes, a significant improvement given Hamilton's previous complaints about a four-tenths deficit. He highlighted Leclerc's strategic use of battery power during the session, suggesting that Ferrari's adjustments could enhance their performance against rivals as the weekend progresses.
Thu 24 Sep · 10:30 UTC
via espn.comGeorge Russell leads opening practice in BakuGeorge Russell topped the first practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing ahead of Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. Meanwhile, Russell's teammate Kimi Antonelli faced reliability issues that forced him to end his session early.
+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 10:10 UTC
via PlanetF1George Russell leads Azerbaijan Grand Prix FP2 sessionGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, following an early red flag. Max Verstappen expressed frustration over ongoing issues affecting his performance during the session.
+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 09:37 UTC
via Formula1.comWhat To Watch For in the Azerbaijan Grand PrixGeorge Russell is looking to secure his third win of the season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, having only won two races so far in 2026. Despite a challenging mid-season, he has regained form and is currently second in the Drivers' Championship, making this a significant opportunity for him.
The race at the Baku City Circuit will also feature Kimi Antonelli, who is anticipated to make his way through the field. Additionally, strong performances are expected from both current and former Red Bull drivers, with the potential for unexpected race-changing moments as the event celebrates a decade of racing at this location.Fri 25 Sep · 16:36 UTC
via PlanetF1Red Bull updates on Isack Hadjar's wrist injuryRed Bull Racing's boss Laurent Mekies has provided an update on Isack Hadjar's wrist injury following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The team also addressed the strategic decisions made during the race involving Max Verstappen and Hadjar.+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 07:44 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAudi inspired McLaren for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s ‘dramatically revised’ Baku upgradeMcLaren is set to introduce a new sidepod upgrade for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, drawing inspiration from Audi's design. The team has focused on enhancing the MCL40's performance, particularly for low-downforce circuits like Baku, where they aim to improve top speed and aerodynamic efficiency.
The upgrades include a significant redesign of the sidepods and inlets, moving towards a more aggressive aerodynamic philosophy. McLaren has incorporated elements from rival teams, including Mercedes and Ferrari, to create a steeper slope for the sidepods and a larger inlet opening. These changes are expected to modify airflow and enhance downforce in medium-speed corners, while also reducing drag on the straights.Thu 24 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via PlanetF1First McLaren and Williams upgrade details revealed in FIA submissionMcLaren and Williams have unveiled their latest upgrades ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with McLaren introducing eight performance-related enhancements to their MCL40. These include revisions to the sidepod inlet shape, engine cover, and rear wing, aimed at improving aerodynamic efficiency. Williams also focused on performance updates, marking a significant step in their development of the FW48, which team principal James Vowles described as an "almost entirely new car."
In contrast, Audi made the most substantial changes, bringing 14 new parts to their R26, effectively creating a B-spec model. Their upgrades encompass a complete overhaul of the front and rear wings, suspension, and engine cover. Other teams like Red Bull and Racing Bulls also contributed to the upgrade frenzy, with Red Bull adding five new components and Racing Bulls focusing on the front end of their car. The developments set the stage for an exciting race in Baku.Thu 24 Sep · 06:44 UTC
via RacingNews365McLaren and Red Bull make aggressive moves for crunch Baku showdownMcLaren and Red Bull have both unveiled significant upgrade packages ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, while Mercedes and Ferrari have opted not to introduce any new components. McLaren's updates include modifications to the sidepod, engine cover, floor, diffuser, rear suspension, and rear wing, aimed at enhancing aerodynamic performance.
Red Bull's updates primarily target the floor and sidepod, with adjustments designed to improve local load and flow stability. The changes reflect the teams' preparations for the challenges of the 2026 season, contrasting with the decision of Mercedes and Ferrari to refrain from any developments for this race.Thu 24 Sep · 06:30 UTC
via f1technical.netWhat are the key technical challenges that face Formula 1 teams at Baku?The Baku City Circuit presents Formula 1 teams with one of the most unusual technical challenges of the season. Its combination of long full-throttle sections, slow corners, narrow sections around the old town and constantly changing track conditions makes finding the right car set-up particularly difficult.Thu 24 Sep · 01:00 UTC
via f1technical.netTyre management crucial for Azerbaijan Grand PrixTeams at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will face unique challenges regarding tyre management at the Baku City Circuit. Various pit stop and tyre strategy options will be critical for optimising performance during the race.+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 00:00 UTCPage 13 of 16