George RussellIsack HadjarLiam LawsonMartin Brundle 
via CrashLewis Hamilton blames F1 rules for Baku near-miss: ‘Not the drivers’ fault'Lewis Hamilton has attributed his near-miss with Liam Lawson during the second practice session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix to the new engine regulations introduced for the 2026 season. Hamilton was on an out-lap and harvesting energy when Lawson, on a hot lap, had to take evasive action to avoid a collision, leading to Lawson's furious reaction over team radio. Both drivers have been summoned by the stewards for an investigation into the incident.
Hamilton explained that the current rules leave drivers with significantly reduced power during out-laps, which can create dangerous situations on track. He expressed his frustration with the lack of guidelines regarding closing speeds and suggested that discussions should take place among drivers to address these issues. Hamilton hopes that a solution can be found to prevent similar incidents in the future.
CrashThu 24 Sep · 15:30 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 stars reveal 'restrictions' on off-track activities after Hadjar boxing injuryFollowing Isack Hadjar's wrist injury, which caused him to miss three races, F1 drivers discussed the restrictions their teams impose on off-track activities. Hadjar clarified that Red Bull has not placed any restrictions on him, despite the injury occurring during a boxing workout.
Charles Leclerc and Alex Albon shared their experiences, revealing that while they have some restrictions, they often negotiate with their teams. Leclerc noted that activities like skydiving and skiing are discouraged, while Albon mentioned that bungee jumping is also considered risky.
gpfans.comThu 24 Sep · 14:51 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 star set to be dogged by injury for 'a while' after heavy crashIsack Hadjar has revealed that he will continue to deal with a wrist injury that caused him to miss the last three races of the Formula 1 season. The French driver suffered a small fracture on the outside of his wrist and will return to racing at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after being replaced by Liam Lawson, who scored 14 points in his absence.
During a press conference, Hadjar discussed the nature of his injury and the recovery process, stating that while he did not require surgery, the healing will take time. He has been able to test on the simulator without issues, but he acknowledged the challenges of training with his injury and expressed a desire to be more cautious in the future.gpfans.comThu 24 Sep · 13:52 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.
Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 13:21 UTC
via RaceFansRussell leads Mercedes one-two, Lindblad crashes, Hamilton summoned for impeding | Formula 1In the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, George Russell led a dominant performance for Mercedes, clocking a fastest lap of 1'43.347. His teammate, Lewis Hamilton, followed closely but could not match Russell's pace, finishing half a second behind.
Max Verstappen from Red Bull secured the third position, but his time was over eight tenths slower than Russell's. Meanwhile, championship leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli faced issues with his car, missing a significant portion of the session due to hydraulic repairs.
RaceFansThu 24 Sep · 13:16 UTC
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell tops Azerbaijan Grand Prix practice sessionGeorge Russell of Mercedes finished first in the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, outperforming his teammate Kimi Antonelli. The results indicate a strong performance from Mercedes as they prepare for the race weekend.
Motorsport.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 13:06 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.
Motorsport WeekThu 24 Sep · 13:05 UTC
via Motorsport.comRed Bull confirms Isack Hadjar's long-term contractRed Bull Racing has clarified that Isack Hadjar is on a long-term contract with the team. Team boss Laurent Mekies addressed previous confusion regarding the length of Hadjar's deal.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 11:50 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.Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 11:49 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhat Kimi Antonelli has learned from Max VerstappenKimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old Mercedes driver, has been learning valuable lessons from Max Verstappen, who has praised Antonelli's impressive performances this season. With eight wins under his belt, Antonelli leads his teammate George Russell significantly in the championship standings. Verstappen, currently sixth in the standings, has encouraged Antonelli to maintain his current approach as he continues to develop his skills.
Antonelli has specifically noted Verstappen's exceptional racecraft, particularly his ability to read situations and position his car effectively. He reflected on a recent race in Madrid, where he learned the importance of maintaining track position and the potential to capitalize on opportunities, as demonstrated by Verstappen. Antonelli's observations of Verstappen's adaptability and performance under pressure have further inspired him in his own racing career.Motorsport.comThu 24 Sep · 11:15 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.
f1technical.net+ 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.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 09:37 UTC
via f1oversteer.comIsack Hadjar aims for strong return at Azerbaijan Grand PrixIsack Hadjar will make his return from injury with Red Bull at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Juan Pablo Montoya believes Hadjar has a specific goal in mind related to Liam Lawson's performance.
f1oversteer.comThu 24 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Russell issues Mercedes engine update with FIA penalty implicationsGeorge Russell has announced that he will not incur an engine grid penalty during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, although he is expected to face one later in the 2026 Formula 1 season. This decision comes as Mercedes awaits the availability of an upgraded power unit, which they believe will enhance their performance. Russell's teammate, Kimi Antonelli, has also dealt with engine issues this season, having recently taken a penalty at Monza but still managing to secure a victory from a challenging starting position.
Russell highlighted that the Baku City Circuit presents opportunities for overtaking, which could mitigate the impact of a grid penalty. He explained that taking a penalty now would complicate future engine changes, particularly since he had to change both his power unit and turbo earlier in the season. As Mercedes prepares for the upcoming races, they are strategically planning their engine upgrades to maintain competitiveness in the championship.PlanetF1Thu 24 Sep · 06:10 UTC
via gpfans.comRed Bull F1 issue Liam Lawson statementRed Bull Racing has issued a statement praising Liam Lawson for his impressive performances during his three-race stint with the team, where he scored 14 points. Lawson stepped in for Isack Hadjar, who was sidelined due to a wrist injury, and achieved notable finishes, including seventh in the Dutch Grand Prix and sixth in the Spanish Grand Prix.
Despite his strong showing, Lawson's future with Red Bull appears uncertain as the team has confirmed Hadjar's return for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Lawson's contract with Racing Bulls is also not yet confirmed, leaving his position in the 2027 season unclear, although he has outperformed his rookie teammate this season.gpfans.comWed 23 Sep · 20:44 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURHow Yuki Tsunoda’s pace compared to Liam Lawson in his three races at Racing BullsYuki Tsunoda's time with Racing Bulls has been marked by underperformance compared to his teammate Liam Lawson. In three races, Tsunoda managed only a single point, finishing P10 at Monza, while Lawson consistently achieved better results, averaging a race position of 8.4 compared to Tsunoda's 11.7. Tsunoda's struggles were evident in qualifying as well, where he was on average seven-tenths slower than Lawson.
As Tsunoda steps back, Lawson is set to return for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with Racing Bulls eager to improve their standings in the constructors' championship. The team has faced challenges, being outscored by Alpine during Tsunoda's stint, which has raised questions about Tsunoda's future in Formula 1 amidst speculation linking him to other teams.f1oversteer.comWed 23 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via thejudge13.comRed Bull announces driver decision for 2027Red Bull Racing has confirmed that Isack Hadjar will continue with the team for the 2027 Formula 1 season, partnering with Max Verstappen. This decision comes after Hadjar's impressive performance in 2026, where he achieved seven consecutive top-six finishes and a podium at the Monaco Grand Prix. Red Bull's CEO, Laurent Mekies, expressed confidence in Hadjar's abilities and his integration into the team, making the contract extension a straightforward choice.
Hadjar's announcement coincides with his return from a wrist injury that sidelined him for three races. He has completed rehabilitation and is set to compete in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The young French driver expressed excitement about continuing with Red Bull, highlighting the team's ambition and the privilege of racing alongside a four-time World Champion like Verstappen. Hadjar focused on his performance on track rather than contract negotiations, indicating his commitment to proving himself.
thejudge13.comWed 23 Sep · 18:36 UTC
via PlanetF1Ocon to lose Haas seat, Red Bull announcement, FIA confirms Russell inspection findings – roundupThe FIA has confirmed that George Russell's Mercedes W17 complies with the 2026 technical regulations following a thorough inspection conducted after the Spanish Grand Prix. This inspection is part of the FIA's routine checks for cars finishing in the top ten, and Russell's car was found to meet all requirements after he finished fifth in the race.
In other news, Esteban Ocon has been informed that he will not continue with the Haas team for the 2027 season, with Rafael Camara set to replace him. Additionally, Red Bull has announced that Isack Hadjar will remain as Max Verstappen's teammate for the upcoming season, following his impressive performance and recent podium finish.PlanetF1Wed 23 Sep · 18:04 UTC
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri and George Russell agree on the issue with modern F1 amid difficult 2026 seasonsOscar Piastri and George Russell have expressed their shared concerns regarding the challenges posed by modern Formula 1, particularly during the 2026 season. Despite a significant points gap, both drivers are facing difficulties adapting to new technical regulations, which they attribute largely to limited testing opportunities compared to other sports.
In a recent press conference ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Russell highlighted the need for more practice time, while Piastri acknowledged the complexities of finding quick solutions to their issues. Both drivers remain optimistic about making progress, emphasizing their confidence in their skills and the support from their teams as they navigate these challenges.f1oversteer.comWed 23 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via AutosportRussell's theory on his big hope for F1 2027 – and Antonelli's replyGeorge Russell, a driver for Mercedes, has expressed optimism about the potential for better-balanced tyres in Formula 1's 2027 season, which he believes could allow for a more natural driving style. He noted that the current tyres have not been well balanced, impacting performance, particularly for drivers like himself and Oscar Piastri, who have struggled with the unnatural driving style required by the 2026 cars.
Kimi Antonelli, Russell's team-mate, has a different perspective, suggesting that while the tyres may evolve slightly, the overall changes will not be drastic. He highlighted that the car's aerodynamics will undergo significant modifications, which will also influence performance. Both drivers are adapting to the technical challenges posed by the current regulations as they prepare for the upcoming season.
AutosportWed 23 Sep · 15:06 UTC
via F1iRussell dodges Baku engine penalty after Mercedes change of planGeorge Russell won’t be taking an engine penalty at this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix, as initially expected, but...
F1iWed 23 Sep · 14:12 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Hamilton sets sights on Russell amid defence of Ferrari's seasonLewis Hamilton expressed optimism about Ferrari's season, stating that finishing in the top three of the Drivers' Championship would be a significant achievement despite recent challenges. He urged critics to focus on the positives, highlighting the team's progress compared to last year.
Hamilton, who has not secured a podium since the British Grand Prix, acknowledged the difficulties faced this season, including a recent retirement in Madrid. He remains focused on competing with George Russell for second place in the standings and believes that Ferrari can improve their performance moving forward.
Sky Sports F1Wed 23 Sep · 13:49 UTC
via Formula1.comRussell insists he will 'keep fighting' for 2026 titleGeorge Russell has declared his intention to continue competing for the Formula 1 title until it is mathematically impossible for him to win. Currently, he trails his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli by 81 points, with Antonelli having secured eight victories this season. Despite a disappointing fifth-place finish in Madrid, Russell remains focused on improving his performance in the remaining races.
As he prepares for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Russell acknowledges the challenges he faces but is encouraged by his recent pace, which has seen him achieve two podium finishes in the last three races. He emphasises that his main goal is to enhance his performance rather than solely focusing on the championship standings, stating that he will keep fighting for every race while prioritising his overall performance.Formula1.comWed 23 Sep · 12:45 UTC
via Formula1.comHadjar elated to ‘come back to the fight’ amid new contractIsack Hadjar is set to return to racing at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after recovering from a wrist injury that sidelined him for three rounds. The Red Bull driver confirmed that while he is ready to compete, he still experiences some pain from the injury, which was a small fracture he sustained during training over the summer.
Alongside his return, Hadjar announced a contract extension with Red Bull that will see him continue racing alongside Max Verstappen in 2027. Prior to his injury, Hadjar was performing well, achieving seven top-six finishes, including a podium in Monaco, and he is eager to demonstrate his capabilities on the track once again.Formula1.comWed 23 Sep · 11:41 UTC