Max Verstappen dominated the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, securing a flag-to-flag victory in Baku after championship leader Oscar Piastri crashed out on the opening lap. The Red Bull driver led every lap on the demanding street circuit, finishing ahead of George Russell and Carlos Sainz in a race that saw high drama and major championship implications.
Early Crash Ends Oscar Piastri’s Race in Baku
The race began with instant drama as McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, who entered the weekend as the championship leader, jumped the start and then suffered a failure in the anti-stall system, losing control into Turn 5. His crash triggered an early Virtual Safety Car and eliminated one of the main title contenders just minutes into the Grand Prix.
Verstappen Controls the Race from Start to Finish
Once in clean air, Verstappen delivered a flawless performance. The Red Bull driver maintained a comfortable gap over the chasing pack throughout the 51-lap race and never looked under pressure. With this win — his fourth of the 2025 Formula 1 season — Verstappen further closed the gap to Piastri in the drivers’ standings.
His Red Bull car looked perfectly balanced around the streets of Baku, allowing Verstappen to manage tire degradation and keep the rest of the field at bay without drama.
George Russell and Carlos Sainz Complete the Podium
Mercedes’ George Russell finished second after a clean and consistent race, while Carlos Sainz secured a surprise podium for Williams. The Spanish driver held off a late charge from Kimi Antonelli to give Williams its first top-three finish in several seasons — a result that could mark a turning point for the once-dominant team.
Sainz’s experience proved vital in a race where others faltered, and his defensive driving in the final stint earned him a well-deserved spot on the podium.
Mixed Results for McLaren and Ferrari
Lando Norris finished seventh, scoring some consolation points for McLaren, but was unable to capitalize on his teammate’s retirement. Charles Leclerc also endured a tough race, brushing the barriers mid-way through the event and finishing outside the top five.
Kimi Antonelli impressed once again, finishing fourth, while Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda also collected valuable points in a race that saw several high-profile incidents.
Azerbaijan GP 2025: Final Thoughts
The 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix once again delivered unpredictability and spectacle. But through it all, Max Verstappen emerged untouchable, delivering a statement win in Baku that has reignited his title challenge.
With Piastri’s early exit shaking up the championship fight, and Verstappen returning to dominant form, the F1 2025 season is set for a thrilling run-in as the calendar heads to the next round.
Provisional classification after 51 laps, according to FIA.com:
