Russell edges Verstappen to win Azerbaijan Grand Prix
George Russell narrowly beat Max Verstappen to victory in the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku. Reports described a drag race to the line in a race that featured two safety cars and produced Formula 1’s closest finish in 24 years.
George Russell won the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, holding off Max Verstappen in a run to the finish to secure victory in Baku. Multiple reports described the closing moments as a drag race to the line, with Russell only just staying ahead.
The race was punctuated by two safety-car periods, according to The Race. Coverage from The Athletic, published by The New York Times, said the margin at the finish made it Formula 1’s closest finish in 24 years.
Across the reported accounts, the consistent result was Russell first and Verstappen second after a tightly contested finish in Azerbaijan.
Sources (5)
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