George Russell wins Azerbaijan Grand Prix amid late challenge from Verstappen

George Russell secured victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on September 26, 2026, in Baku, after surviving two safety car periods and a late challenge from Max Verstappen. Russell, who started from pole position, built a significant lead until a crash by Alexander Albon on lap 31 neutralized the race. After a second safety car, Verstappen, who had climbed from eighth to second, pushed hard in the final laps but finished just one-tenth of a second behind Russell. This win marked Russell's first Grand Slam, having led every lap of the race and achieved the fastest lap.

• 3:32 AMYahoo Sports — F1 Standings 2026 After The Azerbaijan Grand Prix