Max Verstappen Left Furious After George Russell Clashes: Baku Throwback

As the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix approaches, the 2023 Baku sprint race stands out as a defining flashpoint in the Verstappen-Russell rivalry. A wheel-to-wheel battle turned into a collision, significant damage, and a heated exchange.

Why it matters:

The incident exposed the growing friction between two of F1's most competitive drivers. With Baku returning, the memory of this clash adds extra tension to the weekend.

The details:

• At the start, Russell dived inside Verstappen for third. They ran side-by-side through Turns 1-3.
• In Turn 2, Russell's Mercedes understeered into the left side of the Red Bull, damaging the sidepod and floor.
• Verstappen was then pushed wide at Turn 3 and grazed the wall, losing the position to Russell.
• The FIA deemed it a racing incident, no penalty.
• Verstappen fought back to P3, but not before a sarcastic radio exchange with his engineer.
• In parc fermé, Verstappen confronted Russell. Russell said he 'had no grip'; Verstappen replied, "We all have no grip. We all need to leave a little bit of space." He then added: "Next time expect the same. Dickhead."
• In the main race, Verstappen finished second behind Perez, while Russell was eighth with the fastest lap.

The big picture:

The 2023 Baku sprint became a flashpoint in their rivalry. As the 2026 Azerbaijan GP nears, it's a reminder of how quickly their battles can boil over.