Max Verstappen returned to his title-winning form with a commanding victory in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Sunday, reasserting himself in the Formula 1 championship battle.
Starting from pole after a chaotic qualifying session, the Red Bull driver controlled the race from start to finish, building a comfortable lead before his only pit stop.
The win marks back-to-back triumphs for Verstappen, his first consecutive victories since the Spanish Grand Prix in June 2024, and signals a growing challenge to McLaren’s early-season dominance.
“The car was working really well,” Verstappen said. “It was pretty straightforward. Of course, it’s not easy around here, very windy today, so the car is always moving around a little, but I’m incredibly happy with this performance.”
Mercedes’ George Russell, battling illness, finished second, while Carlos Sainz Jr. took third to give Williams their first podium in four years. “Best podium in my career,” Sainz told his team radio in celebration.
The race was shaped by championship leader Oscar Piastri’s first-lap crash, which ended his hopes and allowed teammate Lando Norris to slightly reduce his points deficit.
However, Verstappen’s dominant display ensured McLaren’s advantage came under threat for the second race in succession.
