Max Verstappen stole the spotlight in the third practice session (FP3) of the 2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver set the fastest time of 1m43.922s, beating George Russell, who had earlier looked set to top the session for the third consecutive time this weekend. The gap between them was just 0.099s, signaling an intense battle ahead of qualifying.
Russell, driving for Mercedes, had led with a 1m44.021s. However, Verstappen utilized a slipstream from Liam Lawson to close in and eventually take the top spot. Lewis Hamilton completed the top three, just over a hundredth behind his Mercedes teammate, while Kimi Antonelli finished fourth and Charles Leclerc fifth. Ferrari showed competitive pace, with Leclerc only marginally behind the leaders.
The session was marked by several drivers going off track, including Russell, Verstappen, Hamilton, and Leclerc. Strong winds made the track dusty and slippery, prompting a brief Virtual Safety Car (VSC) for a slippery surface warning. Winds of up to 50 km/h in some corners, as reported to Antonelli by Mercedes, severely disrupted car balance. Verstappen even complained about his car jumping over bumps, while Oscar Piastri admitted to having 'very low confidence' under braking for Turn 1.
Lance Stroll had the most dramatic moment when he hit the wall at Turn 1. Despite this, he was able to continue and finished 22nd. This incident served as a reminder of the challenging conditions at the Baku City Circuit, especially with the gusty winds. Gasly and Colapinto were the first drivers to venture out, effectively sweeping the track before the rest of the field gradually joined them. Gasly later improved to finish sixth.
In the final 20 minutes, drivers switched to fresh soft tyres for qualifying simulations. Russell immediately improved his time, as did Antonelli and Verstappen. Piastri, also on softs, moved up to fourth, while Norris had to settle for seventh, just behind his teammate. Isack Hadjar and Franco Colapinto completed the top 10, showing that midfield teams can also compete in these difficult conditions.
With this result, Verstappen sent a clear message that Red Bull remains a serious threat in Azerbaijan. Mercedes showed solid pace, but consistency in qualifying will be key. Ferrari cannot be underestimated either, with Hamilton and Leclerc always near the top. The qualifying session promises to be fierce, especially if the wind conditions remain unpredictable.
For fans, FP3 was a thrilling spectacle. Several top drivers had to fight hard to control their cars amid the wind and slippery track. Verstappen, known for his aggression, capitalized on every opportunity, including the tow from Lawson. Meanwhile, Russell, who had been impressive since FP1, had to concede defeat to his rival in the final practice session.
Qualifying will be the real test. Who can master the conditions and handle the pressure? Verstappen is clearly confident, but Russell and Hamilton will not give up easily. Leclerc and Ferrari are also ready to spring a surprise. Don't miss the action at the Baku City Circuit, only on Sportrik.
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