2026 F1 Azerbaijan GP: Russell beats Verstappen by 0.196s

George Russell won the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku after holding off Max Verstappen by just 0.196 seconds at the finish. The Mercedes driver secured his third win of the season and his first victory since the Austrian GP in June.

Russell survives two Safety Car restarts

The race became especially tense after two Safety Car restarts gave Verstappen opportunities to attack. Russell managed both restarts and kept the Red Bull driver behind him through the closing stages, eventually crossing the line with the narrowest of margins.

The result gives Russell another important win in the 2026 season. Verstappen had to settle for second after mounting a late charge that came close to changing the outcome in the final part of the race.

Hadjar returns with Baku podium

Isack Hadjar also had a notable weekend in Azerbaijan, finishing third on his return to Formula 1 action. He had spent six weeks out after suffering a fractured wrist, making the podium finish a strong comeback result.

His P3 also meant the Baku race featured a different face on the podium alongside Russell and Verstappen. The result will add another memorable chapter to Hadjar's 2026 season after his period away from racing.

What the result means for F1 fans

• Russell took his third win of the 2026 season.
• Verstappen finished 0.196 seconds behind Russell.
• Russell's previous win came at the Austrian GP in June.
• Hadjar returned after six weeks out with a fractured wrist.
• Hadjar finished third at the Azerbaijan GP.

For Indian car and bike enthusiasts following Formula 1, the Baku result is another reminder of how much can change after a Safety Car restart. A race that looks settled can quickly turn into a close fight when the field is brought together again.

Was Russell's 0.196-second win the closest finish you expected in Baku?