Verstappen's rise, McLaren’s fall, and Sainz stuns: How the internet reacted
Photo: Race Pictures
22:20, 21 Sep 2025
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Olly Darcy is an editor at GPblog, specializing in Formula 1 news. With a background in sports journalism, he delivers timely and reliable coverage of the sport.
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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Overview
Friday 21.08.26
Practice 1
10:30 AM
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Saturday 22.08.26
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Friday 21.08.26
Practice 1
Fri 10:30 AM
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F1-stand 2026
Season
| Pos. | Driver | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | MercedesMER | 219 | |
2 | FerrariFER | 169 | |
3 | MercedesMER | 160 | |
4 | FerrariFER | 138 | |
5 | McLarenMCL | 128 | |
6 | Red Bull RacingRBR | 109 | |
7 | McLarenMCL | 92 | |
8 | Red Bull RacingRBR | 68 | |
9 | Racing BullsRCB | 43 | |
10 | AlpineALP | 42 |
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