Watch F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix — Practice 1 Free.

What's at Stake

As the 2026 Formula 1 season enters its European and West Asian swing, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix represents a critical test for the new power unit and aerodynamic regulations introduced this year. Teams must find the perfect balance between high-speed stability on the 2.2km main straight and precision through the tight, technical sections of the Baku City Circuit to secure a foothold in the early-season championship standings.

Form Guide

The field arrives in Baku following a series of flyaway races that have begun to establish a clear pecking order under the new technical rules. While some teams have mastered the integration of the increased electrical power output, others are still struggling with reliability and low-drag efficiency, making this opening practice session vital for data collection on one of the calendar's most unforgiving street tracks.

Key Players to Watch

• Max Verstappen — The Dutchman remains the benchmark for street circuit precision and will look to assert his dominance early in the weekend.
• Lewis Hamilton — With his vast experience navigating the technical nuances of Baku, he aims to exploit any setup advantages found in his new machinery.
• Charles Leclerc — Known as a qualifying specialist in Azerbaijan, his ability to find the limit around the narrow castle section will be under the spotlight.

Prediction

Expect a cautious start to Practice 1 as drivers acclimatize to the dusty track surface and the unique braking zones of the city streets. Red Bull and Ferrari are likely to lead the timing sheets by the end of the hour, with the session likely being interrupted by at least one yellow flag as teams push the boundaries of the 2026-spec cars.