George RussellKarun ChandhokNico Rosberg 
via Formula1.com'Less pressure on me than there is him' – Russell on titleGeorge Russell expressed that he feels less pressure in the ongoing Drivers' Championship compared to his teammate Kimi Antonelli. After winning the Grand Prix in Baku, Russell reduced Antonelli's lead to 66 points, having previously trailed by 81 points. Antonelli's crash during qualifying significantly impacted his performance, allowing Russell to capitalize on the situation and secure a crucial victory.
Russell reflected on his recent form, stating that he did not consider himself a contender for the title until now. He noted that despite a challenging start to the season, his performance has improved significantly. The article draws parallels to last season's championship battle, suggesting that Russell's current deficit is not insurmountable, especially if he continues to perform well.
Formula1.comMon 28 Sep · 13:02 UTC
via PlanetF1Lewis Hamilton defends George Russell after Baku restartLewis Hamilton has come to the defence of George Russell following scrutiny over his management of the chaotic restart during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The incident has sparked discussions among drivers and the FIA regarding the handling of such situations.
PlanetF1Mon 28 Sep · 12:12 UTC
via f1technical.net"There was little opportunity to relax at any stage of the race," claims Mercedes ...George Russell secured a commanding victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, converting his pole position into a win despite facing pressure from Max Verstappen in the closing laps. The race featured two Safety Car periods that challenged Russell's lead, but he managed to hold on for the win, marking an important return to the top step of the podium for him and Mercedes.
Kimi Antonelli also had a notable performance, recovering from a difficult qualifying session that left him in P16. He climbed through the field to finish fifth, showcasing his determination and skill. Mercedes Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin praised both drivers for their performances, highlighting the team's strong pace throughout the weekend and their ability to maximize opportunities during the race.
f1technical.netMon 28 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via racer.comRussell, Verstappen, Hadjar find Norris call for Colapinto race ban 'too harsh'Lando Norris has suggested that Franco Colapinto should be banned from racing following a crash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which he deemed dangerous. However, fellow drivers George Russell, Max Verstappen, and Isack Hadjar have expressed that this punishment is too severe, arguing that the incident stemmed from a minor mistake exacerbated by challenging track conditions.
Russell, who won the race, emphasized that race bans should be reserved for intentional reckless behaviour, while Verstappen highlighted the importance of accountability from Colapinto. Hadjar pointed out that the bumpy track and difficulties in warming up tires contributed to the crash's severity. Colapinto has received a five-place grid penalty for the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix.
racer.comMon 28 Sep · 08:10 UTC
via PlanetF1Winners and losers from the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand PrixGeorge Russell delivered a standout performance at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, winning the race and reigniting his championship hopes. He dominated the weekend, showcasing his speed and resilience, particularly after overcoming challenges earlier in the season. Russell expressed pride in his team's efforts and his growing confidence with the car, despite being significantly behind in the championship standings.
Conversely, Franco Colapinto faced severe backlash after crashing into teammate Lando Norris, jeopardising Alpine's points in the Constructors' Championship. Colapinto took full responsibility for his mistake, which could have costly implications for the team. His actions have drawn the ire of team principal Flavio Briatore, who is contemplating potential disciplinary measures, while the situation has escalated tensions among fans on social media.PlanetF1Mon 28 Sep · 06:29 UTC
via f1chronicle.comGeorge Russell Claims First Grand Slam of His Career With Baku Win That Slashes Antonelli’s Title LeadGeorge Russell secured his first career Grand Slam by winning the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, leading every lap and finishing just 0.196 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen. This victory reduced Kimi Antonelli's championship lead from 81 points to 66, with eight races remaining in the season. Russell expressed that he feels more like himself again after a challenging stretch, crediting his team for their support during tough times.
Antonelli, who had a difficult weekend, crashed in qualifying and started from 16th position, ultimately finishing fifth. Despite this setback, he still maintains a significant lead in the championship standings. Russell's win has revitalised the title race, and he remains determined to win every remaining race this season.
f1chronicle.comSun 27 Sep · 20:25 UTC
via PlanetF1Lando Norris ‘race ban’ theory under Verstappen, Hadjar and Russell scrutinyLando Norris has called for a race ban for Franco Colapinto following a multi-car collision at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which resulted in Norris retiring from the race. Norris believes that Colapinto's actions were careless and deserving of a ban, stating that such incidents cost teams significant amounts of money.
However, his request has faced criticism from fellow drivers George Russell, Max Verstappen, and Isack Hadjar, who feel that a race ban is too severe for what they consider a small mistake. Colapinto received a 10-second penalty for causing the collision, which has been converted into a five-place grid drop for his next race.PlanetF1Sun 27 Sep · 13:04 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen denies George Russell super-rare F1 achievement only Lewis Hamilton holdsDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, George Russell came close to achieving a Super Grand Chelem, a rare feat only accomplished by Lewis Hamilton. Russell dominated the early sessions, topping Free Practice 1 and 2, securing pole position, and winning the race while also setting the fastest lap. However, he fell short of the Super Grand Chelem after Max Verstappen outpaced him in Free Practice 3.
Verstappen's performance in Free Practice 3, where he clocked a time of 1:43.922, prevented Russell from joining the exclusive club of drivers who have topped every session, qualified first, led every lap, and set the fastest lap in a race. Hamilton remains the only driver to have achieved this since the current qualifying format was introduced in 2006.
RacingNews365Sun 27 Sep · 11:10 UTC
via Motorsport WeekMotorsport Week’s 2026 F1 Azerbaijan GP Driver RatingsGeorge Russell achieved his first victory of the 2026 season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, showcasing a dominant performance throughout the race weekend. He started from pole position and maintained control despite pressure from Max Verstappen, who finished just a tenth of a second behind him at the chequered flag. Isack Hadjar made a strong comeback to secure third place after recovering from a wrist injury that had sidelined him for three races.
Kimi Antonelli managed to limit damage by finishing fifth after starting from P16 due to a qualifying incident. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton struggled with pace, finishing fourth and sixth respectively. Arvid Lindblad and Esteban Ocon also scored points, while Oliver Bearman ended his point-less streak by finishing ninth. Liam Lawson faced difficulties after a collision with his teammate Lindblad.
Motorsport WeekSun 27 Sep · 11:01 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes did not expect Monza repeat from AntonelliMercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord stated that Kimi Antonelli was never expected to replicate his previous performance from Monza during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. George Russell secured victory at the Baku City Circuit, converting his pole position into a win for Mercedes.
Motorsport.com+ 1 moreSun 27 Sep · 06:55 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2026 results: Final classification with all penalties applied from BakuGeorge Russell claimed victory at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, leading from start to finish despite pressure from Max Verstappen in the closing laps. This win marks Russell's first since June, with Verstappen finishing just 0.196 seconds behind, making it one of the closest finishes in recent history.
Red Bull's Isack Hadjar secured third place, contributing to the team's first double podium since 2024. McLaren faced a challenging race, with Lando Norris crashing out and Oscar Piastri finishing 14th. Franco Colapinto was penalised for causing a collision, which will affect his grid position in the next race.
gpfans.comSun 27 Sep · 06:14 UTC
via PlanetF1Azerbaijan GP conclusions: Russell back in the game, Colapinto ban demand, untelevised Hamilton radioLewis Hamilton's untelevised team radio during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has come under scrutiny after he called for a ban on Lando Norris following a racing incident. This demand has sparked discussions about the implications of such requests in Formula 1, particularly regarding driver conduct and team dynamics.
In the same race, George Russell secured his third victory of the 2026 season, holding off Max Verstappen, who finished second. Isack Hadjar achieved a notable third place, marking Red Bull's first double podium finish since 2024. The race highlighted the ongoing competitive tensions within the sport, especially as Hamilton's comments add to the narrative surrounding driver accountability and the enforcement of racing standards.PlanetF1Sun 27 Sep · 05:04 UTCvia f1technical.net"I never lost that faith in myself," claims Russell after his dominant showing in BakuGeorge Russell secured his first Formula 1 victory since Austria by winning the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on 27 September 2026. Starting from pole position, Russell maintained control for most of the race, but faced significant pressure from Max Verstappen after two Safety Car periods brought the field closer together. Despite a tense final few laps, where he even clipped the wall, Russell managed to fend off Verstappen's challenge and crossed the finish line first.
After the race, Russell expressed his pride in the hard work he and his engineering team put in to overcome earlier season difficulties. He highlighted his recent form, having achieved three podiums in the last four races, and conveyed confidence in his ability to compete for victories consistently. Looking ahead, Russell mentioned upcoming upgrades for Mercedes, which he hopes will enhance their performance in future races.f1technical.netSat 26 Sep · 22:00 UTC
via lightsoutblog.com2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Race Statistics, Facts and TriviaGeorge Russell secured victory at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, marking his eighth career win and achieving his first Grand Slam by leading every lap and setting the fastest lap. He won by a narrow margin of 0.196 seconds, the closest finish since 2023, and this victory also allowed Mercedes to equal Ferrari for the most wins in Formula 1 history.
Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar completed the podium, marking Red Bull's first double podium finish in over two years. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton finished fourth and sixth respectively, while Kimi Antonelli, who started 16th, finished fifth. Haas achieved a double points finish for the first time at Baku, with Carlos Sainz rounding out the top ten.lightsoutblog.comSat 26 Sep · 21:27 UTC
via f1chronicle.comGeorge Russell keeps the Red Bulls at bay to conquer BakuGeorge Russell secured victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, narrowly beating Max Verstappen by just one tenth of a second. Isack Hadjar, Verstappen's teammate, finished in third place, marking a successful race for Red Bull as they confirmed Hadjar's seat through to 2027. Russell managed to maintain his lead despite pressure from Verstappen after two Safety Car periods, showcasing strong pace throughout the race.
The race saw a strategic use of tyre compounds, with Russell and Verstappen starting on the Soft compound and Hadjar opting for an alternative strategy. Kimi Antonelli, who finished fifth, continues to lead the FIA Formula One World Championship standings. Russell's victory has significantly narrowed the points gap to Antonelli, highlighting the competitive nature of the championship as teams and drivers adapt to the challenging Baku circuit.f1chronicle.comSat 26 Sep · 20:49 UTC
via RacingNews365Russell survives Verstappen charge as Colapinto causes crash chaosGeorge Russell secured victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, narrowly beating Max Verstappen by 0.196 seconds. This win places Russell 66 points behind Kimi Antonelli, who made a remarkable recovery from 16th on the grid to finish fifth.
The race was relatively calm until an incident involving Alex Albon brought out the safety car. The restart led to chaos as Franco Colapinto collided with Pierre Gasly and Lando Norris, prompting Norris to call for a race ban for Colapinto.RacingNews365Sat 26 Sep · 19:42 UTC
via BBC Sport'Mr Saturday' Russell 'comes through other side' after 'real tough period'George Russell achieved a significant victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, marking his first win since the end of June and his third of the 2026 season. This win comes after a challenging period for Russell, who has struggled to keep pace with his teammate Kimi Antonelli, who has dominated the season with eight victories. Russell's triumph has reduced the points gap between him and Antonelli to 66, providing a glimmer of hope as the season progresses.
Throughout the race weekend, Russell demonstrated superior performance, being fastest in practice and maintaining his lead despite a late challenge from Max Verstappen. Antonelli faced difficulties, including a qualifying mistake that left him starting from 16th. Russell's win is seen as a turning point, showcasing his resilience and hard work in adapting to the new car. Mercedes is expected to introduce a significant upgrade in the upcoming Bahrain/Malaysia race, which could further impact the championship standings.
BBC SportSat 26 Sep · 17:44 UTC
via espn.comRussell warns Antonelli: 'Pressure is on you'George Russell achieved a commanding victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, marking the most dominant performance of his career. He won the race after starting from pole position and narrowly held off Max Verstappen, finishing just 0.1 seconds ahead. This win allowed Russell to reduce Kimi Antonelli's championship lead to 66 points, as Antonelli struggled to recover from a poor qualifying performance that left him starting in 16th place.
Despite his fifth-place finish, Antonelli remains in control of the championship standings. He acknowledged that he drove conservatively during the race, aiming to secure points rather than take risks. Russell, on the other hand, expressed renewed confidence in his ability to compete for victories in the remaining races of the season, emphasizing his determination to win every race moving forward.
espn.comSat 26 Sep · 17:40 UTC
via F1iAzerbaijan GP: Saturday's action in picturesThe Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday was filled with excitement, highlighted by George Russell's commanding win. The race saw a dramatic first corner where Franco Colapinto's error significantly impacted the outcome, while safety cars played a crucial role in reshuffling the order throughout the event.
Isack Hadjar made a remarkable comeback from injury, achieving a podium finish, and Kimi Antonelli showcased impressive driving by advancing from 16th to 5th place. The race was part of the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship, marking round 15 of the season.
F1iSat 26 Sep · 17:30 UTC
via racer.comVerstappen doubts victory was possible despite historic close finishMax Verstappen expressed doubts about his chances of winning the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, despite finishing just 0.196 seconds behind George Russell. He started the race from eighth position due to engine issues and yellow flags during qualifying, but managed to climb to third early on, aided by a team order to pass teammate Isack Hadjar. However, he struggled to overtake Oscar Piastri during the opening laps and only managed to pass him after the first safety car restart on lap 36.
Verstappen reflected on his performance, stating that even with a better qualifying position, he believed it would have been difficult to overtake Russell due to his pace. He highlighted the effectiveness of the soft tires during the final laps, which allowed him to push hard, but ultimately felt that the race result would not have changed significantly. The race marked a successful outing for Red Bull Racing, achieving a double podium finish.racer.comSat 26 Sep · 17:28 UTC
via BBC SportRussell faultless while Hadjar excellent on return - driver ratingsGeorge Russell dominated the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, securing his third victory of the season by leading the race from start to finish. Max Verstappen finished closely behind in second place, while Isack Hadjar made a strong return from injury to claim third. Kimi Antonelli, Russell's Mercedes teammate, managed to recover from a poor qualifying position to finish fifth, but his championship lead was cut significantly.
Russell's performance was highlighted by a stunning qualifying lap that put him on pole by over eight tenths of a second. Despite pressure from Verstappen towards the end of the race, Russell maintained his lead. The race showcased impressive recoveries from several drivers, including Antonelli and Hadjar, while others faced challenges that affected their results.BBC SportSat 26 Sep · 17:04 UTC
via F1iVerstappen doubts better grid spot could have denied RussellMax Verstappen finished second in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, acknowledging that George Russell had superior pace throughout the race. Despite starting from eighth due to qualifying troubles, Verstappen managed to climb through the field but found it challenging to overtake Oscar Piastri and ultimately could not threaten Russell's lead.
Verstappen noted that even with a better starting position, Russell's performance would likely have kept him ahead. The race was influenced by two safety cars, which allowed Verstappen to switch to softer tyres, enhancing his performance in the final laps. However, he concluded that Russell's pace would have made it difficult to secure a victory regardless of his starting position.F1iSat 26 Sep · 16:09 UTC
via theguardian.comNorris says some drivers ‘shouldn’t be in F1’ after Colapinto shunt dents title hopesLando Norris expressed his frustration after being taken out of the race by Franco Colapinto during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Norris, who was running in eighth place, stated that Colapinto does not deserve to be in Formula One and called for a race ban for the Alpine driver due to his reckless driving that caused the incident.
Colapinto's actions not only affected Norris's title hopes but also resulted in a costly crash for his own team, Alpine. The stewards imposed a 10-second penalty on Colapinto, but since he had already retired, he will face a grid drop in the next race. Norris remains mathematically in contention for the championship, but with eight races left, his chances appear slim.
theguardian.comSat 26 Sep · 16:04 UTC
via CrashGeorge Russell and Max Verstappen land Ferrari dig in cooldown room after Azerbaijan GPGeorge Russell and Max Verstappen shared their thoughts on Ferrari's performance after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, highlighting the team's lack of competitiveness. Russell secured his third victory of the season, narrowly beating Verstappen, while Ferrari's drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, finished fourth and sixth respectively, unable to challenge for the podium.
In the cooldown room, Russell noted that Ferrari's pace was not impressive, with Verstappen agreeing that they were slow on the straights. Despite Leclerc's strong qualifying position, he lost ground early in the race and could not keep up with the frontrunners. Russell and Verstappen dominated the race, finishing well ahead of the rest of the field.
CrashSat 26 Sep · 14:53 UTC