Formula 1 fans are in for a thrilling Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which kicks off today at 11:00 UTC. After a wildly unpredictable qualifying round in Baku, the starting grid is filled with surprises and opportunities for the underdogs.
Just like in Monza, Max Verstappen starts from pole position. Despite all the chaos, the Red Bull driver seems to have struck at just the right moment. However, alongside him on the front row is a surprising name: Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard unexpectedly pushed his Williams to P2. The question is whether he can maintain this position, or if he will quickly be swallowed up by the pursuing pack after the lights go out.
On the second row, we find Liam Lawson (P3) in the Racing Bulls, his best qualification ever, next to Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli (P4). For both talents, the opening phase will be crucial: will they keep their cool, or will the pressure from the established order be too great?
In the Chase: The Established Order
That established order is lurking just behind them. Yuki Tsunoda starts in sixth place, George Russell in seventh, but the title fight in Baku takes a new turn. Lando Norris, who is still chasing the world title, starts only in seventh place. His teammate and championship leader Oscar Piastri will have to fight his way forward from ninth place, while Charles Leclerc (P10) and Lewis Hamilton (P12) will also have to claw their way back into the race.
At the bottom of the grid, we find Esteban Ocon. The Frenchman was disqualified after qualifying because his Haas did not comply with the technical regulations, and therefore starts as the last runner.
Anticipating an Afternoon Full of Action
All signs point to an afternoon brimming with action. The narrow Baku City Circuit is notorious for its unforgiving walls and unpredictable twists. Safety cars seem almost inevitable, and who knows, there might even be more spectacle in store. One thing is certain: anyone not in front of the TV at 11:00 UTC might miss one of the most thrilling races of the year.
