Verstappen wins the Azerbaijan GP as Russell and Sainz shine on the podium
Max Verstappen delivered a commanding performance to win the 2025 Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, taking back-to-back victories and reigniting Red Bull’s momentum after a turbulent mid-season. George Russell’s strategic masterclass earned Mercedes second place, while Carlos Sainz brought home a sensational podium for Williams — their first since 2021.
Verstappen Untouchable in Baku
Starting from pole on hard tyres, Verstappen executed a flawless launch and immediately controlled the race pace. Even with the threat of rain and a mid-race Safety Car, the Dutchman never looked under serious pressure. His pace advantage was clear, setting the fastest lap late on and managing both tyre life and gaps with clinical precision. This marks his fourth win of the season and his second career victory at the Baku City Circuit.
Lap 1 Drama: Piastri’s Championship Blow
The race exploded into life with a nightmare for championship leader Oscar Piastri. The McLaren driver jumped the start, triggered anti-stall, dropped to last, and moments later locked up into Turn 5, crashing into the barriers. The incident brought out the Safety Car and handed Lando Norris a golden opportunity to slash the points gap.
However, Norris’ afternoon was compromised by a slow pit stop and long spells stuck behind Yuki Tsunoda. He eventually finished seventh, trimming Piastri’s lead to 25 points — far less than McLaren would have hoped given their rival’s DNF.
Russell’s Strategy Pays Off
George Russell, battling illness all weekend, delivered one of the drives of the day. Starting on hard tyres, he extended his first stint deep into the race, overcutting Sainz and emerging in second after the pit cycle. From there, he managed the gap to the Williams and secured Mercedes’ best result since Canada.
Kimi Antonelli also impressed, running strongly in the top five and finishing fourth, underlining Mercedes’ improved form in cooler, low-downforce conditions.
Sainz Delivers for Williams
Carlos Sainz’s podium was the feel-good story of the day. Starting second on used mediums, he resisted pressure from Antonelli in the closing stages to secure P3 — a result that reflects Williams’ resurgence under James Vowles. The team’s strategy calls were spot-on, and Sainz’s defensive driving in the final laps was faultless.
Midfield Battles and Standout Drives
Liam Lawson produced arguably his best F1 race to date, holding off faster cars to claim fifth for Racing Bulls. Tsunoda followed in sixth, keeping Norris at bay in a tense DRS train that also featured Lewis Hamilton, who finished eighth ahead of Charles Leclerc and rookie Isack Hadjar.
Further back, incidents shaped the midfield:
- Albon vs Colapinto: A Turn 5 collision earned Albon a 10-second penalty.
- Alonso’s False Start: The Aston Martin driver served a five-second penalty and finished 15th.
- Hadjar’s Recovery: Overcame pre-race hydraulic issues to score a point.
Final Classification – Top 10
- Max Verstappen – Red Bull Racing
- George Russell – Mercedes
- Carlos Sainz – Williams
- Kimi Antonelli – Mercedes
- Liam Lawson – Racing Bulls
- Yuki Tsunoda – Red Bull Racing
- Lando Norris – McLaren
- Lewis Hamilton – Ferrari
- Charles Leclerc – Ferrari
- Isack Hadjar – Racing Bulls
Championship Implications
Piastri’s costly error means the title fight remains alive heading into Singapore. Norris has reduced the gap, but with only seven rounds remaining, every point will count. Verstappen’s win also strengthens Red Bull’s position in the Constructors’ standings, while Williams’ podium extends their cushion over Aston Martin.
Key Takeaways
- Verstappen’s dominance: Perfect execution from pole to flag.
- Russell’s resilience: Smart tyre management and strategy.
- Sainz’s milestone: Williams’ first podium in four years.
- Piastri’s setback: A rare mistake with big championship consequences.
- Midfield intensity: Lawson, Tsunoda, and Norris in a thrilling late-race scrap.
The F1 circus now heads to Singapore, where the tight Marina Bay streets could deliver another twist in both championship battles.