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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.
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton receives punishment for Baku incidentLewis Hamilton has been punished by the stewards following a 'dangerous' incident involving Liam Lawson during the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The FIA confirmed the decision after Hamilton was called to the stewards for his actions.
via PlanetF1Lewis Hamilton reprimanded for impeding Liam LawsonLewis Hamilton received a reprimand from the FIA stewards for impeding Liam Lawson during the second practice session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Lawson expressed concerns about Formula 1's regulations, stating they contribute to dangerous situations on track.
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 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.
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.
via gpfans.comLewis Hamilton robbed of F1 title but major blunder must still haunt himLewis Hamilton's costly mistake during the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix is being highlighted as a pivotal moment that ultimately cost him the championship. Despite being in a strong position to win the race, Hamilton accidentally activated a setting on his car that caused him to lock up and finish in 16th place, missing out on valuable points.
Had Hamilton secured a better finish in Baku, he would have entered the final race in Abu Dhabi with a significant points lead over Max Verstappen. The article argues that while the controversial ending in Abu Dhabi was a major factor in Hamilton losing the title, the blunder in Baku was equally critical and continues to haunt him.
via Motorsport WeekCharles Leclerc rejects ‘overanalysing’ of Lewis Hamilton F1 battlesCharles Leclerc has addressed the ongoing scrutiny regarding his on-track battles with Lewis Hamilton, stating that he finds it enjoyable to compete against one of the best in Formula 1. He believes that the analysis surrounding their racing dynamics is often misguided and that discussions between them can clarify any misunderstandings.
Leclerc, who has been with Ferrari since 2019, emphasised the importance of teamwork and shared goals within the team. Despite the competitive nature of their rivalry, he insists that both he and Hamilton are focused on achieving success for Ferrari, rather than allowing personal competition to overshadow their objectives.
via gpfans.comLewis Hamilton criticises decision to shorten F1 racesLewis Hamilton has expressed his disagreement with the decision to shorten Formula 1 races starting in 2027, stating that the championship needs 'longer races'. He highlighted that the sport has become less physically demanding, making the change seem illogical to him.Wikimedia Commons · Picture by Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street · OGL 3Hamilton hopes Middle East finale goes aheadLewis Hamilton expressed his hope that the Formula 1 races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will proceed as scheduled in 2026. He stated that he personally wants to participate and trusts the decision-making of Stefano Domenicali, despite concerns about the security situation in the Middle East. Speculation about Imola potentially replacing Abu Dhabi has surfaced, but the official stance remains unchanged for now.
Hamilton also commented on the possibility of a winter finale in Imola, questioning its weather suitability. Additionally, he voiced his discontent regarding the decision to shorten race distances from 305 kilometres to 290 kilometres, arguing that races should be longer. He and Max Verstappen concurred that a sprint race format is not suitable for the Monaco circuit.
via f1chronicle.comVasseur highlights Ferrari's struggles in AzerbaijanFerrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged the team's performance issues during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, particularly on the long straights. Despite showing potential earlier in the season, Ferrari has only secured one podium in their last five races.
via gpfans.comLewis Hamilton enjoys time with Kim Kardashian and puppyLewis Hamilton has been spending quality time with his girlfriend Kim Kardashian and their puppy, Halo. The couple's relationship continues to flourish amid the ongoing challenges faced by Hamilton's team, Mercedes.
via Motorsport WeekLewis Hamilton issues ‘do better’ verdict on crucial Ferrari F1 flawLewis Hamilton has pointed out a significant flaw in Ferrari's 2026 Formula 1 package, stating that the team could do better, particularly regarding tyre performance. This comes after Hamilton's early retirement in Madring due to a brake issue, which further diminished Ferrari's already slim chances in the World Championships.
Ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Hamilton discussed his analysis of Ferrari's performance, indicating that while the SF-26 chassis shows strength, the power unit lacks competitiveness compared to Mercedes. He emphasised the importance of tyres in delivering performance, suggesting that improvements in this area could enhance Ferrari's competitiveness on the track.
via gpfans.comLeclerc acknowledges mistakes in Hamilton battlesCharles Leclerc has acknowledged that he sometimes went too far in his on-track battles with his Ferrari team-mate Lewis Hamilton. This admission comes amid ongoing discussions regarding his future with the team.
via f1oversteer.comMontoya says Leclerc must regain Hamilton's respectJuan Pablo Montoya has stated that Charles Leclerc needs to 'earn that respect back' from Lewis Hamilton following their recent on-track dispute at Monza. Montoya believes the issue between the Ferrari teammates is not yet fully resolved.
via Formula1.comHamilton reveals his focus in the title fightLewis Hamilton has shared his thoughts on the championship battle as he heads into the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He acknowledges the challenges faced by Ferrari, particularly after not finishing on the podium since the Belgian Grand Prix, and expresses his desire to maintain second place in the standings while also aiming to catch Mercedes in the Constructors' Championship.
Hamilton remains optimistic about the team's potential for improvement and is focused on enjoying each race. Meanwhile, teammate Charles Leclerc is preparing for the race but is concerned about the possibility of a grid penalty for an upgraded power unit. Both drivers are looking to secure strong results to enhance Ferrari's position in the championship.
via CrashLewis Hamilton shares views on F1's Middle East racesLewis Hamilton has expressed his unexpected stance regarding Formula 1's decision to conclude the 2026 season in the Middle East. His comments come as Red Bull confirmed their driver line-up for 2027 during a media day ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc tried to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes before they signed Kimi AntonelliCharles Leclerc, currently a key driver for Ferrari, explored the possibility of replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for the 2025 season. His manager, Nicolas Todt, engaged in discussions with Mercedes regarding this potential move after they were informed of Hamilton's impending transfer to Ferrari.
Despite these talks, Mercedes opted to sign Andrea Kimi Antonelli, leading Leclerc to renew his contract with Ferrari in January 2024. This decision came before Hamilton's official announcement of his move to Ferrari, which was revealed in February 2024. As a result, Leclerc remains with Ferrari through the 2030 season.
via Formula1.comKimi Antonelli insists title race is not over yetKimi Antonelli, the Mercedes driver, maintains that his 81-point lead in the Drivers' Championship is not a guarantee of victory, stating it is 'not over until it’s over' ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Meanwhile, George Russell has expressed his determination to continue fighting for the championship, aiming to win every race.
via Motorsport.comJames Hinchcliffe explains why Ferrari is "happy" with Lewis Hamilton-Charles Leclerc rivalryJames Hinchcliffe has expressed that Ferrari is pleased to manage the growing rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. He believes that this competitive dynamic is what Ferrari anticipated when they signed Hamilton, especially after his struggles in the previous season. Hamilton has shown significant improvement in 2026, achieving a podium and a victory, which has elevated his position in the drivers' standings.
Hinchcliffe pointed out that having two strong drivers like Hamilton and Leclerc can enhance team performance, despite the potential for difficult decisions down the line. He emphasized that Ferrari's management, led by Fred Vasseur, is likely satisfied with the current situation, as it aligns with their expectations for Hamilton's role within the team.Page 8 of 33
