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via RaceFans2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in pictures | F1 PicturesThe 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix was held at the Baku City Circuit, featuring prominent drivers from various teams. Notable participants included Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris from McLaren, Isack Hadjar from Red Bull, and Fernando Alonso from Aston Martin.
The event showcased a mix of competitive racing and team strategies, with each driver aiming for a strong performance. The picturesque backdrop of Baku added to the excitement of the race, making it a significant event in the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Sat 26 Sep · 12:05 UTC
via gpfans.comGeorge Russell secures pole position in BakuGeorge Russell achieved pole position for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, providing him with a significant opportunity to reduce Kimi Antonelli's championship lead. This comes after Russell's Mercedes team-mate crashed out during the qualifying session.
+ 2 moreFri 25 Sep · 06:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Russell tells Antonelli pressure is now on himGeorge Russell stated that Kimi Antonelli is now under pressure in their title fight following his recent victory in Azerbaijan. Antonelli, however, believes he can ignore the pressure from rivals who claim the championship is already his.
+ 2 moreFri 25 Sep · 05:25 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAlex Brundle disagrees with Oscar Piastri about his ‘main issue’ amid drubbing by Lando NorrisOscar Piastri is facing challenges in the 2026 season, particularly in his performance compared to teammate Lando Norris. Despite Piastri's belief that race pace is his main issue, Alex Brundle argues that his qualifying struggles are the root cause of his difficulties, as he consistently starts behind Norris.
Brundle highlighted that Piastri's qualifying record, with Norris leading 9-1, significantly hampers his chances on race day. As they head into the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, qualifying will be critical for Piastri to close the gap and improve his standing against Norris.
Thu 24 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comDavid Coulthard warns "heads will roll" if Williams FW48 upgrade failsDavid Coulthard has issued a stark warning regarding the Williams FW48 upgrade, stating that significant consequences could follow if it fails to improve the team's performance. The Grove-based team has struggled throughout the season, currently sitting ninth in the constructors' championship with only 11 points, largely due to the car's overweight issues.
The upgrade, described by team principal James Vowles as nearly a B-spec car, is aimed at enhancing performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Coulthard, drawing comparisons to Aston Martin's previous upgrades, believes that the changes should yield a notable improvement. However, he cautioned that if the expected results do not materialise, there could be serious repercussions for the team.
Thu 24 Sep · 17:10 UTC
via Sky Sports F1'Pretty pants!' - Norris rules McLaren out of Baku pole fightLando Norris expressed disappointment with McLaren's performance during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix practice sessions, stating they were significantly off the pace, specifically 1.5 seconds slower than Mercedes' George Russell. Despite bringing a major upgrade package to Baku, Norris felt the new parts did not yield immediate improvements, and he ruled out a contention for pole position.
George Russell, who topped both practice sessions, expects the gaps to tighten in qualifying. Kimi Antonelli faced issues with a hydraulics leak but managed to recover well in the second session. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton noted Ferrari's struggles with tyre performance and straight-line speed, indicating a challenging day for the team.
Thu 24 Sep · 15:47 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris suffering 'knife in the heart' over McLaren Baku realityLando Norris expressed disappointment over McLaren's performance during Free Practice 2 at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing sixth but significantly slower than George Russell. He described the experience as feeling like 'a little knife in the heart,' highlighting the struggles of the MCL40 despite recent upgrades.
Norris acknowledged that the Baku circuit's layout, with its slow-speed corners and long straight, revealed the car's weaknesses. He noted a challenging start to the day after losing time in FP1 but remained optimistic about the team's ability to analyse data and improve for the upcoming sessions.
Thu 24 Sep · 15:45 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 Motorsport.comWilliams to debut major car upgrade in AzerbaijanWilliams will introduce a significant update package for their car at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Team boss James Vowles has stated that this upgrade will result in an 'almost completely new' vehicle.+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 07:28 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 RacingNews365Lando Norris highlights major F1 driver issue: 'It's not what we're seeing this year'Lando Norris has spoken out regarding the upcoming changes to Formula 1 regulations set for the 2027 season, which will reduce race distances from 305 kilometres to 290 kilometres. This adjustment is a response to modifications in power units that are expected to increase engine output, allowing for a more traditional racing experience that relies less on battery management.
Norris expressed that many drivers have voiced concerns about the current power units, which they feel undermine their driving skills. He views the new regulations as a necessary compromise to improve the sport, allowing drivers to focus more on their performance rather than battery conservation. Looking ahead, Norris is optimistic that F1 will eventually revert to longer race distances as engine manufacturers adapt.Thu 24 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comJolyon Palmer suggests Oscar Piastri needs F1 reset in blunt Lando Norris comparisonJolyon Palmer has suggested that Oscar Piastri may need a winter reset following a challenging 2026 season with McLaren. Piastri's recent performance has been inconsistent, particularly in comparison to his teammate Lando Norris, who has been performing strongly, including securing pole position at the Spanish Grand Prix. Piastri currently sits seventh in the drivers' standings with 120 points, while Norris is fourth with 186 points.
Palmer pointed out that Piastri had a promising half-season in 2025 but has struggled to maintain that form in 2026. He noted that Piastri has been unable to match Norris's consistency and suggested that a reset could help Piastri regain his competitive edge. Palmer also referenced Piastri's previous success in lower racing categories, indicating that he has the potential to perform at a higher level.Wed 23 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Formula1.comNorris reflects on upturn in form ahead of Azerbaijan GPLando Norris has expressed confidence in his recent performance, noting improvements compared to last year as he prepares for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite winning two of the last four races, he acknowledges that this weekend's circuit may not favour McLaren's strengths, particularly due to its lack of high-speed corners.
Norris has dismissed the idea of contending for the drivers' title this season, given his significant points deficit. He emphasises the team's ongoing efforts to extract maximum performance from their car, while also highlighting the challenges posed by the Baku track, which he feels may resemble the difficulties faced at Monaco last year.Wed 23 Sep · 15:55 UTC
via Motorsport.comLando Norris benefits from McLaren Hypercar testLando Norris believes that his recent test drive of McLaren's new Hypercar will enhance his performance in Formula 1. The reigning world champion drove the MCL-HY at the Algarve International Circuit, gaining valuable experience that he feels will translate to his F1 skills.+ 1 moreWed 23 Sep · 13:54 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris rubbishes George Russell claim over 2026 F1 carsLando Norris has firmly rejected George Russell's assertion that certain driving styles are leading to better performances in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Norris emphasised that his ability to adapt to the new car's requirements is his true strength, rather than a specific driving style suiting the new chassis design.
The 2026 cars have shifted from a ground effects approach to a more traditional aerodynamic wing design, which has affected drivers differently. While Lewis Hamilton has thrived under these changes, Russell and teammate Oscar Piastri have struggled, trailing significantly in points. Norris highlighted that the differences between the 2025 and 2026 cars are substantial, making it inaccurate to attribute success to driving style alone.Wed 23 Sep · 05:25 UTC
via f1chronicle.comOscar Piastri Searches for Answers After an ‘Anonymous’ Weekend Leaves Him Trailing Lando NorrisOscar Piastri is searching for clarity regarding his performance after a disappointing outing at the Spanish Grand Prix, where he finished in eighth place. His teammate, Lando Norris, secured pole position and has significantly outperformed Piastri this season, leading to a 66-point gap in the championship standings.
Despite a challenging season, pundits believe Piastri still possesses the potential to win, especially at the Baku City Circuit, where he previously triumphed. However, concerns have been raised about his consistency and ability to match Norris's improvements, leading to speculation about a potential reset for Piastri as the season progresses.
Tue 22 Sep · 21:46 UTC
via Motorsport WeekGuenther Steiner issues bold Lando Norris prediction for F1 2026 seasonGuenther Steiner, the former Haas team principal, has made a bold prediction that Lando Norris will secure second place in the Formula 1 Drivers' Championship for the 2026 season. Currently, Norris is in fourth place with 186 points, trailing Kimi Antonelli, who leads with 292 points. Norris has shown impressive form recently, achieving two victories this season and performing strongly in qualifying sessions.
Norris's recent performances have drawn praise from his team principal, Andrea Stella, who highlighted the precision of his driving during his pole lap in Madrid. Norris himself acknowledged that this lap was one of the best of his career. As the season progresses, he is expected to continue pushing for top results, with McLaren planning to introduce a significant upgrade at the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Tue 22 Sep · 18:30 UTC
via grandprix.comSchumacher reads new confidence in Norris title chargeRalf Schumacher believes that Lando Norris has shown increased confidence in the 2026 Formula 1 title race, suggesting that he may have received coaching to enhance his public persona. Schumacher's observations are based on Norris's recent assertive comments and improved performances, particularly regarding his position among the highest-paid drivers in the sport.
Despite Schumacher's speculation, there is no concrete evidence to confirm that Norris has employed a coach. The true test of Norris's capabilities will come during the upcoming race in Baku, where his performance against teammate Oscar Piastri and other title contenders will provide a clearer picture of his championship prospects.
via f1oversteer.comLando Norris would never have won the 2025 title under F1’s new Grand Prix format for 2027The Formula 1 Commission has decided to reduce Grand Prix distances from 305km to 290km starting in 2027, a change prompted by concerns over fuel tank sizes due to upcoming engine regulations. This new format would have significantly altered past championship outcomes, including Lando Norris's 2025 title win, which would have gone to Max Verstappen instead.
Under the new rules, crucial moments from previous races would have had different results. For instance, Verstappen's victory in Abu Dhabi would have made him the 2025 champion, and the 2021 title fight would have seen Lewis Hamilton crowned champion instead. The changes also raise questions about other historic races, such as Jenson Button's iconic win in Canada, which would not have occurred under the new race length.Tue 22 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via RacingNews365McLaren call on Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to execute three 'essentials' in BakuMcLaren has outlined three key requirements for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as they prepare for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The team is set to implement a major aerodynamic upgrade to enhance the performance of their MCL40 cars, particularly focusing on airflow around the floor and rear tyres to improve balance on the circuit's long straights.
Rob Marshall, McLaren's chief technical officer, emphasised the unique challenges posed by Baku's layout, which combines the longest straight in Formula 1 with tight corners. He stressed the importance of energy, tyre, and brake management, as well as the need for confidence and precision from the drivers to navigate the demanding street circuit successfully.Tue 22 Sep · 10:55 UTCPage 5 of 23