5 Key Storylines to Watch at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix
As F1 heads to Baku for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, several intriguing narratives unfold. From potential driver returns to strategic upgrades, here's what to keep an eye on.
The 2026 Formula 1 season is barreling towards its conclusion, and with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix marking the start of three consecutive triple headers, the stakes are as high as the Baku skyline. Kimi Antonelli leads the Drivers’ Championship, but as any seasoned fan knows, Baku is a place where fortunes can change faster than you can say 'castle section.'
Will Hadjar Make His Comeback?
Isack Hadjar has been conspicuously absent from Red Bull's lineup since a wrist injury sidelined him during the summer break. His absence from the races in Zandvoort, Monza, and Madrid left Liam Lawson to step in, while Yuki Tsunoda took over at Racing Bulls. Red Bull has been cautious, emphasizing that Hadjar's return hinges entirely on his full recovery. With two weeks since the last race, the odds of seeing Hadjar back in the car in Azerbaijan are improving, but Red Bull will make the final call based on his fitness. A return in Baku would be a trial by fire, given the challenges of a triple header.
Williams' Make-or-Break Upgrades
Williams has been vocal about its upcoming upgrade package for Baku, hoping to turn around a season that’s been more backmarker than midfield contender. Currently languishing in ninth place, they're eyeing Audi and Haas just ahead in the standings. A solid performance in Azerbaijan could put them in a position to challenge these teams more consistently. However, beyond the points, proving that their development direction is correct could be critical for the team’s morale and future progress.
A Stagnant Driver Market
While the F1 season has been relentless, the driver market has been anything but. Since Max Verstappen extended his contract and Williams confirmed their drivers, things have been quiet. Haas remains undecided, having tested a few promising talents, and Fernando Alonso's future at Aston Martin is still under wraps. Will Baku finally stir the pot, or will the musical chairs continue to be on pause?
Racing on a Saturday
In a twist to the usual programming, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be held on Saturday, avoiding a clash with the nation’s Remembrance Day. So, set your alarms for a day earlier. The entire schedule shifts forward, with media duties on Wednesday, practice on Thursday, qualifying on Friday, and the race itself on Saturday. This change marks the tenth anniversary of racing in Azerbaijan, a circuit known for its unforgiving barriers and overtaking opportunities, especially with its notorious tight castle section and long straights that have seen many a race decided in dramatic fashion.
Formula 2's High Stakes Weekend
Formula 2 is set for a packed schedule in Baku, mirroring the excitement of the F3 finale in Madrid. Two qualifying sessions and two feature races are on the menu, with the title race intensifying between leader Nikola Tsolov and closest rival Rafael Camara, separated by just seven points. Alpine-backed Gabriele Mini and Alex Dunne are also in the mix, making this a pivotal weekend for championship aspirations.
As we gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating weekend of racing in Azerbaijan, these storylines ensure there’s more than enough to keep fans on the edge of their seats.