Mercedes sets the early pace in Baku practice
Practice for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix opened in Baku with Mercedes showing strong early-season pace and reliability. Other competitive trends were noted by multiple outlets, but the clearest common takeaway was Mercedes’ strong start to the weekend.
Practice running has begun for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, giving teams an initial read on form for the weekend. Coverage from multiple outlets focused on the first on-track lessons from Thursday’s sessions.
The clearest shared theme was Mercedes’ start. The team was described as showing early-2026 form in both outright pace and reliability, making it the standout reference point from the opening practice running.
Beyond Mercedes, the wider competitive picture was still being assessed after the first sessions. Early practice in Baku offered the first indications of where teams may stand, but the main cross-source conclusion was Mercedes’ strong beginning.