Verstappen's rise, McLaren’s fall, and Sainz stuns: How the internet reacted
22:20, 21 Sep 2025
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The Azerbaijan Grand Prix had plenty of shocks and surprises for the fans. Max Verstappen's win propelled him into championship contention, while Carlos Sainz and Williams made the most of McLaren's poor weekend in Baku.
Max Verstappen after Baku win | Photo: RacePictures
Verstappen back in the title hunt?
Max Verstappen and Red Bull have refound their form, taking back-to-back wins as the Dutchman climbed the top step of the podium in Baku.
It was a race that showed the pace Verstappen still possesses in 2025, and there is talk that there could still be a chance the 27-year-old could make it five consecutive world titles.
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McLaren make a mess of Baku
McLaren had the chance to seal the constructors' championship in Bau this weekend, but a disappointing weekend saw them miss out.
Championship leader Oscar Piastri crashed out on the first lap, while a slow stop for Lando Norris derailed his race and saw him finish in only P7.
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Sainz back on the podium
One person who profited on McLaren's poor weekend was Carlos Sainz, who finished on the podium for the first time since the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
After qualifying P2 on Saturday, the Spaniard drove a calm and composed race to take P3 and collect 15 points in the drivers' standings after a tumultuous year.
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Japanese Grand Prix
Overview
Friday 27.03.26
Practice 1
02:30 AM
Practice 2
06:00 AM
Saturday 28.03.26
Practice 3
02:30 AM
Qualification
06:00 AM
Sunday 29.03.26
Race
05:00 AM
Friday 27.03.26
Practice 1
Fri 02:30 AM
Practice 2
Fri 06:00 AM
Saturday 28.03.26
Practice 3
Sat 02:30 AM
Qualification
Sat 06:00 AM
Sunday 29.03.26
Race
Sun 05:00 AM
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F1-stand 2026
Season
| Pos. | Driver | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | MercedesMER | 51 | |
2 | MercedesMER | 47 | |
3 | FerrariFER | 34 | |
4 | FerrariFER | 33 | |
5 | HaasHAA | 17 | |
6 | McLarenMCL | 15 | |
7 | AlpineALP | 9 | |
8 | Red Bull RacingRBR | 8 | |
9 | Racing BullsRCB | 8 | |
10 | Racing BullsRCB | 4 |
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