:focal(1115x658:1117x656)/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2025/09/21/image-9d7d4faa-a157-4170-b12f-c32a890339d7-85-2560-1440.jpeg)
Baku, Azerbaijan – Max Verstappen secured pole position in a highly turbulent qualifying session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday, marked by a record six red flags. The race itself saw Verstappen claim victory, while Oscar Piastri crashed his McLaren in the first lap, eliminating him from contention.
the unusual qualifying grid saw Carlos Sainz and Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) unexpectedly line up behind Verstappen.Several drivers expected to challenge,including McLaren’s Lando Norris (starting 7th) and Charles Leclerc (10th) along with Lewis Hamilton (12th) in the Ferrari,found themselves further back.
before the start, Red Bull motorsport consultant Helmut Marko stated, “the McLaren will be,” referring to a potential challenge from the team, ”but that depends on how to get through the field.” However,Piastri’s race was immediately compromised by a false start,slowing him and dropping him to the back of the field before a subsequent crash ended his race early.
Leclerc overtook Norris early in the race, placing the McLaren driver between the two Ferraris. Verstappen quickly established a lead, extending his advantage over Sainz to ten seconds. He completed his tire change without issue, while Norris experienced delays during his pit stop, becoming embroiled in a battle with the Ferraris in the midfield.
