FP2: Baku's Flat-Out Final Sector Awaits Teams at 2026 Azerbaijan GP

FP2 is underway at the Baku City Circuit for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with drivers back on track for the second practice session of the weekend. The 2.2km flat-out drag through the final sector is expected to feel dramatically different under the 2026 regulations, making this session an early indicator of who has the package to challenge for pole.

Why it matters:

Baku's hybrid layout demands a compromise between low-downforce speed on the long straights and mechanical grip through the tight castle section. With the 2026 power units now delivering an equal split between internal combustion and electrical power, energy deployment through that final sector could be the key differentiator this weekend.

The details:

• Session timing: FP2 runs for 60 minutes, starting at 16:00 local time (13:00 UK).
• Program focus: Expect qualifying simulations on low fuel followed by race-stint runs to evaluate tire degradation across the 51-lap grand prix.
• Setup refinement: Teams will use the hour to fine-tune active aero modes, particularly balancing the low-drag X-mode on straights against the high-downforce Z-mode in corners.
• Track evolution: With street circuits, grip levels improve rapidly as rubber is laid down, so times in FP2 should already show meaningful progress from FP1.

What's next:

Once the chequered flag falls on FP2, the focus shifts to data analysis overnight before final practice and qualifying on Saturday. Baku has a history of producing surprise results, but the long-run data from this session should offer the clearest clues yet about Sunday's pecking order.