George Russell wins Azerbaijan Grand Prix after tight battle with Verstappen

George Russell won the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit, securing his third victory of the season and eighth career win. After taking pole position with a significant margin, Russell controlled much of the race, though two Safety Car periods—triggered by accidents involving Alex Albon and a collision between Franco Colapinto and Pierre Gasly—intensified the competition in the closing laps.

Max Verstappen finished second, trailing Russell by just 0.196 seconds after a late-race charge from eighth position. Red Bull secured a double podium as Isack Hadjar finished third. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli, who started 16th following a qualifying accident, recovered to finish fifth.

The result narrows the gap in the driver's championship, with Antonelli maintaining a 66-point lead over Russell. While Mercedes demonstrated strong performance with upcoming upgrades, Ferrari struggled, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton finishing fourth and sixth respectively.