Baku Press Conference: Hadjar Returns, Williams Goes Big, Russell Looks Ahead

Isack Hadjar is back in the Red Bull cockpit this weekend with a new 2027 contract secured, while Alex Albon debuts Williams' most significant upgrade package of the season. George Russell, meanwhile, has all but conceded the championship, reframing Mercedes' remaining races as groundwork for the future.

Why it matters:

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix arrives with several teams at pivotal moments. Red Bull locks in its long-term driver plans, Williams gambles its season on a major chassis overhaul, and Mercedes recalibrates expectations amid Kimi Antonelli's breakout campaign.

The details:

• Hadjar's return: Back from a wrist fracture, the Frenchman confirmed he's fit to race and unfazed by the pressure of a new deal. "I'm not here to be hopeful. I'm here to show what I do on track," he said.
• Williams' big swing: Albon confirmed the upgrade centers on shedding a substantial weight penalty — a "guarantee" in lap time. But he cautioned the midfield's rapid development rate means the gains may only close the gap, not leapfrog it.
• Leclerc's engine call: Ferrari's upgraded power unit is "back in the pool" of available engines, leaving the door open for a grid penalty this weekend. Leclerc acknowledged Ferrari's post-summer performance has slipped, with McLaren closing in and Mercedes remaining the benchmark.
• Cadillac's new power: Pérez confirmed Cadillac will run the new Ferrari engine in Baku, though he admitted the car's drag will limit its effectiveness on the long straights.
• Russell on Antonelli: The Mercedes driver credited his teammate's success to a driving style that suits the current regulations perfectly, while conceding the championship deficit is no longer a consideration.

What's next:

Baku's 90-degree corners and unforgiving walls reward commitment above all else. Leclerc, still chasing a first win at a track where he's taken three poles, hopes Saturday's pace can finally translate into Sunday's result.