Mercedes' victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was more than just another trophy. It was a defiant message from George Russell to Andrea Kimi Antonelli that the 2026 F1 title fight is far from over. With pressure mounting, Russell rediscovered his best form just as his main rival stumbled on the treacherous streets of Baku.
Yes, the 66-point gap is still substantial. But look at how Russell controlled the race. He was not only fast but also smart, reading the situation perfectly. Two Safety Car periods threatened his position, yet he navigated them with composure, while Antonelli — the championship leader — lost momentum on a track known to punish the slightest error.
Verstappen and Red Bull: Close but Not Enough
The only driver who truly made Russell nervous was Max Verstappen. The reigning champion exploited every Safety Car to close in, but Red Bull still lacks the consistent one-lap pace to challenge for victory. Nevertheless, the promising return of Isack Hadjar signals that the Milton Keynes squad is building something solid.
Verstappen may not have overtaken, but his Baku performance showed he is not giving up. The two Safety Cars were golden opportunities, but Russell always had an answer. Red Bull must now decide: can they still fight for the title this year, or should they focus on next season's development?
Ferrari: Struggling Amid Crisis
On the other side, Ferrari swallowed another bitter pill. Engine power deficit remains the core issue, and even the ADUO-2 used by Charles Leclerc could not mask the fundamental weaknesses of the SF-26. Baku exposed all the wounds: the project seems misguided, with too much energy spent on areas irrelevant to the current regulations.
More worryingly, Ferrari's previous advantages are fading as rivals continue to develop. Podiums are slipping away, and pressure on Frederic Vasseur is mounting. Speculation about his future resurfaced after Christian Horner's sudden challenging remarks. Vasseur's relationship with Lewis Hamilton is also rumored to be strained, adding uncertainty in Maranello.
Ferrari needs not only technical fixes but also internal stability. Otherwise, 2026 could turn into a long nightmare.
Antonelli and a Valuable Lesson from Baku
For Antonelli, this was a heavy blow. The Baku circuit is indeed a trap for young drivers, and he fell into it. Although he still leads the championship, his confidence may be shaken. Russell now knows the pressure can be reversed. The question is: can Antonelli bounce back, or will Russell keep knocking on the door?
One thing is clear: the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has shifted the competitive landscape. Mercedes are back to winning ways, Red Bull show potential, and Ferrari sink deeper. The rest of the season will test everyone's mental strength. Don't miss the full analysis on the Doppiati podcast, delivering sharp insights every Monday.
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