Russell Sets the Pace in Baku

Mercedes has made a commanding start to the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with George Russell leading team-mate Kimi Antonelli in a dominant 1–2 during FP2.

Russell set a 1:43.347 around the Baku City Circuit, finishing 0.552 seconds ahead of championship leader Antonelli. Max Verstappen was third for Red Bull, already 0.827s away from Russell's benchmark.

Russell also topped FP1, completing a clean sweep of Thursday's two practice sessions.

Two sessions. Two P1s. Mercedes sets the early Baku benchmark.

Antonelli Recovers From FP1 Trouble

Antonelli's second place was particularly significant after his opening session was disrupted by a hydraulic problem.

Mercedes had to carry out repairs and a power-unit change before FP2, delaying Antonelli's running. Once back on track, however, the Italian quickly recovered to secure second behind Russell.

With Antonelli leading the championship and Russell sitting second, Mercedes' early Baku pace strengthens its position heading into qualifying.

Verstappen and Ferrari Chase Mercedes

Behind the Mercedes pair, Verstappen finished third, while Ferrari occupied fourth and fifth with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.

The gap was notable: Leclerc was 1.126s behind Russell, while Hamilton ended FP2 1.318s off the pace. McLaren had an even quieter session, with Lando Norris sixth and Oscar Piastri eighth.

McLaren is introducing a substantial upgrade in Baku focused on low-speed performance, meaning its Thursday pace may not yet represent the package's full potential.

Mercedes Sends Early Warning in Azerbaijan

For Winbox Racing, Mercedes' opening-day performance is a strong statement ahead of Friday qualifying.

The Silver Arrows have already won 10 of the opening 14 races, while Antonelli arrived in Azerbaijan with eight victories and an 81-point championship advantage over Russell.

Practice does not guarantee pole — especially on an unpredictable street circuit like Baku — but Mercedes has clearly established the early benchmark.

Russell P1. Antonelli P2. More than eight-tenths back to Verstappen.

Mercedes has started the Azerbaijan GP weekend on top.

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