Victory under pressure in Azerbaijan
George Russell maintained the lead from start to finish in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix of Formula 1, resisting the constant pressure from Max Verstappen and two safety car interventions. The British Mercedes driver crossed the finish line in front, securing his first victory of the season.
The podium was completed with Verstappen in second and Isack Hadjar in third. Gabriel Bortoleto, from Audi, finished in 13th position after a race marked by position changes and incidents.
Clean start and first maneuvers
The race started without major problems, with Russell defending the lead well against Charles Leclerc. Oscar Piastri took advantage to move up to second place, while Verstappen and Hadjar soon overtook the Monegasque's Ferrari.
On lap seven, Red Bull instructed Hadjar to give way to Verstappen, prioritizing the attack on the leader. Lance Stroll retired early due to mechanical problems, and a brief yellow flag appeared on lap nine.
Safety cars and chaos on the restart
On lap 30, Lando Norris made a mistake on his own and Alex Albon hit the wall, prompting the safety car. The restart on lap 35 caused confusion: Franco Colapinto collided with Pierre Gasly, who hit Norris, causing the triple retirement. Other drivers like Oliver Bearman and Isack Lawson were also involved in touches.
On the second restart, Russell controlled the front without difficulties. Piastri lost the podium by locking his tires in turn 1, opening space for Hadjar. Kimi Antonelli overtook Lewis Hamilton in the fight for fifth place.
Dramatic conclusion
In the final laps, Verstappen approached to less than three tenths of Russell. Valtteri Bottas hit the wall on the last lap, but the Briton held on to the victory. Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll completed a bad day for Aston Martin with a double retirement.
- Final classification (top 5): Russell, Verstappen, Hadjar, Leclerc, Antonelli.
- Brazilian highlight: Bortoleto finished 13th, just behind Nico Hülkenberg.