Five storylines to watch ahead of the Azerbaijan GP

The 2026 championship is about to accelerate as three consecutive triple headers begin at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Kimi Antonelli leads the Drivers' Championship, but Baku can change everything.

Why it matters:

With the title fight alive and the midfield tight, this block could reshape both championships. Baku is also key for Red Bull's driver plans, Williams' development, and a stalled driver market.

The details:

• Hadjar could return: Isack Hadjar missed Zandvoort, Monza and Madrid after hurting his wrist in the summer shutdown. Liam Lawson has filled in at Red Bull, with Yuki Tsunoda at VCARB. Another two-week gap opens the door, but Red Bull won't take risks.
• Williams brings upgrades: Williams sits ninth, six points behind Audi and 10 behind Haas. A planned Baku upgrade is about points and proving the FW48 is heading the right way.
• Mercedes holds on: Mercedes admits it can't match rivals' upgrade pace after prioritising the launch car. Antonelli has won the last two races, but new parts only arrive in Malaysia, so Baku may be damage limitation.
• Driver market stalled: Since Verstappen's extension and Williams confirming both drivers, little has moved. Haas tested Hirakawa, Camara, Fornaroli and Doohan; Alonso hasn't confirmed 2027, though expected to stay at Aston Martin. Racing Bulls could also shift.
• Saturday race: The Azerbaijan GP runs on Saturday to avoid Remembrance Day on September 27. Practice moves to Thursday, qualifying to Friday. Baku's tight castle section and long straight have produced drama since 2016.
• F2 title fight: Two F2 feature races in Baku. Nikola Tsolov leads Rafael Camara by seven points; Gabriele Mini is 24 behind, Alex Dunne 38.

What's next:

Hadjar's fitness update is expected soon, and Williams' upgrade gives an early read on the midfield. With three triple headers ahead, Baku is the first chance for the championship picture to change quickly.