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Tsunoda uses an Italian expression to show anger: "What a salami!".
A hilarious team radio moment from the Japanese driver followed, showing that Tsunoda had already learnt quite a bit of Italian in Faenza. It's the Italian equivalent of calling someone a sausage in English.
3 Sept 2024
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
The Italian Grand Prix was over early for Yuki Tsunoda. On the fourth lap of the Formula 1 race, the VCARB driver was hit by Nico Hulkenberg's Haas.
"What a salami!";
https://www.gpblog.com/en/videos/299...-a-salami.html
'We lost': Laurent Mekies points out ‘most frustrating aspect’ of Yuki Tsunoda’s Monza retirement
2 Sept 2024
Rory Mitchell
F1 Oversteer
Yuki Tsunoda was the sole retirement from the Italian Grand Prix after a collision with Nico Hulkenberg seven laps into the Italian Grand Prix. RB denied opportunity to test new parts after Yuki Tsunoda retirement. RB brought a few upgrades to this race including a new floor and halo aimed at bringing them more performance to the track.
But because Hulkenberg’s collision damaged the floor, Tsunoda was forced to retire because of the net effect it had on his car balance. This denied the team the opportunity to compare it to Ricciardo, who was running the old-specification parts.
Mekies was less than impressed by the Haas driver’s antics: “One could say our race was dictated by Hulkenberg, with Daniel given a five-second penalty, having forced him of the track, before Nico then drove into Yuki, leading to us retiring the car.
‘Most frustrating aspect’;
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/lau...za-retirement/
Yuki Tsunoda: Rivals have reached out to me in 2024
September 9, 2024
Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
Last Word On Sports
Tsunoda received several offers from across the paddock. Yuki Tsunoda admits that 2024 is the first time he’s been approached by rivals in the paddock: “I started to probably show my value this year, from the beginning of the season. Before I signed my contract with VCARB, fortunately, a couple of teams reached [out] to me…”
“I never had that in the last two years, especially the first two years. So you just need to consistently keep delivering the results. So far, I’m able to achieve that – but it’s kind of the first year I’m showing good results consistently. I know a lot of things I can improve, and still a lot of things to come from myself.”
‘Tsunoda received several offers from across the paddock’;
https://lastwordonsports.com/motorsp...to-me-in-2024/
Yuki Tsunoda outlines his ‘main priority’ in the hunt for his next F1 drive after RB
4 Sept 2024
Shay Rogers
F1 Oversteer
Yuki Tsunoda is coming to the end of his fourth season in Formula 1, all with the same Visa Cash App RB team who he has helped to deliver a level of stability to. The Japanese star has been a dependable performer for the Italian outfit, maturing through his time with them and picking up the speed with experience.
“That’s the main priority is Red Bull Racing,” he said. “It’s the one thing I was aiming since I joined Formula 1. The car is one of the fastest cars right now and currently, probably McLaren’s a little bit faster, but I just want to drive the car and show my potential for top three, top two, whatever.”
“At the same time, if things don’t ever achieve, or maybe there’s other car – they’re happy with the drivers. Also as a driver myself, that’s also I want to drive some point in the top five. Hopefully VCARB will be able to achieve that.”
‘Main priority’;
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/yuk...rive-after-rb/
Yuki Tsunoda explains how his ‘relationship’ with Helmut Marko adds ‘extra pressure’ at RB
4 Sept 2024
Rory Mitchell
Helmut Marko is known for being a tough boss at Red Bull having been in charge of their driver programme since they joined Formula 1. Although it can often look like they have a conveyor belt of rookie drivers, their ruthless approach has yielded title success for them over the years with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
Yuki Tsunoda says Helmut Marko adds ‘extra pressure’ to perform. Tsunoda has scored the bulk of RB’s 34 points in the Constructors’ Championship this season, which puts them in sixth heading into the final eight races of the season. “If I have a good race, he will praise me. He will say nice words. If I have a bad race he’ll add a bit of pressure, a little bit more than usual. So I kind of got used to it. But he’s the guy who was, since I joined Red Bull, always looked after me,” said Tsunoda.
“Sometimes his advice can be a bit of extra pressure, going ahead of race. But at the same time, a lot of times also helped me a lot. Without our team I’m not here in Formula 1. I’d say the relationship is definitely there.”
‘Extra pressure’;
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/yuk...ressure-at-rb/
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Will McLaren overtake Red Bull in the constructors' title battle in Baku?
McLaren now sit just eight points behind Red Bull in the constructors' standings, and while Red Bull continues their downward spiral, the papaya-coloured team will hope to overtake the Austrian team in Baku. Will they be abe to do so?
11 Sept 2024
Olly Darcy
GPblog.com
Since the Miami Grand Prix, Red Bull have gone through some struggles, and the last time out at Monza, it was possibly the worst performance in Red Bull's recent memory. Although Norris could not take the win from pole position, he cut a 70-point deficit on Max Verstappen to 62, and with Oscar Piastri's P2, McLaren closed the gap to just eight points in the constructors' championship.
McLaren, who have been competitive at every race so far in 2024, will hope that's the same in Baku, while also hoping for more poor performances from Red Bull. Sergio Perez has the most wins in Baku under his belt, winning in 2021 and 2023 with Red Bull to take that crown. Nico Rosberg, Daniel Ricciardo, Lewis Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas and Max Verstappen also have a win to their name around the street circuit.
‘Will McLaren overtake Red Bull?’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30022...e-in-baku.html
‘Poison for them’: Red Bull told why the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be like ‘poison’ for the RB20
10 Sept 2024
Shay Rogers
F1 Oversteer
It has been six races since the seemingly dominant Red Bull team last won a race in a season that began with everyone expecting them to dominate. Why the Azerbaijan Grand Prix could be like ‘poison’ for Red Bull. The Baku street circuit plays host to the longest straight in Formula 1 at over 1.2km, offering an opportunity for overtaking, but also suffering for those without the right package. Red Bull were the slowest team through the speed traps at the Italian Grand Prix, and their lack of a low downforce rear wing even annoyed Verstappen at Monza.
Journalist Ralf Back agrees that Red Bull’s next few races could make for grim reading if they fail to improve their form. “Now we have a track in Azerbaijan that can be very, very undulating, which has been a poison for them so far the Red Bull in the last races,” he said on F1-Insider.com‘s YouTube. “Then comes Singapore, maybe there will be a miracle and they are just good where they were really bad last year, even though they had by far the best car.”
‘Grim reading’;
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/red...-for-the-rb20/
Max previews Azerbaijan GP: 'Our priority is to get our form back'
11 Sept 2024
Niels Hendrix
Verstappen.nl
Looking ahead to the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Max Verstappen says: “I have been back in the factory with the team this week and on the sim ahead of the double header. Monza was a tough race and it is our priority to get our form back to where it needs to be. We always want to be more competitive and the team has been working hard to improve the issues we have been seeing with the car from the past few races.”
The Dutch Oracle Red Bull Racing driver adds: “We are now back to the flyaways with this first race returning to Baku. It is always a good challenge coming here and is an interesting track to drive, being a street circuit with long straights, so we are ready to get back racing again and see what the weekend brings.”
‘Our priority to get our form back to where it needs to be’;
https://news.verstappen.com/en/article/5585/
The F1 record Verstappen can edge closer towards with special Baku performance
Max Verstappen will establish himself in joint second-place on an exclusive qualifying list with pole position in Baku, but the Dutchman will still be some way off Lewis Hamilton's record.
10 Sept 2024
Samuel Coop
RacingNews365
Max Verstappen has the opportunity to match an F1 great during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. If the Dutchman can successfully secure pole position for the race in Baku, he will equal the number of times different circuits Red Bull's first drivers' champion, Sebastian Vettel, took pole on.
Pole postion on different circuits
# Driver Different circuits
1. Lewis Hamilton 32
2. Sebastian Vettel 23
3. Max Verstappen 22
3= Alain Prost 22
5. Ayrton Senna 20
5= Nigel Mansell 20
7. Michael Schumacher 19
8. Nelson Piquet 17
8= Nico Rosberg 17
10. Jim Clark 16
‘F1 record Verstappen can edge closer towards’;
https://racingnews365.com/verstappen...rmance-in-baku
Norris reveals the dreaded small print to McLaren's team orders
12 Sept 2024
Jenny Garnett
GPblog.com
Andrea Stella revealed this week how Oscar Piastri has been instructed to support teammate Lando Norris in his fight. Speaking in Baku, Norris was asked for his feelings on the team orders announcement and shared, "Good. Thankful. Yeah, how do I say it? He's still fighting for his own racing. He's still going out and doing his stuff. And it could be that there's no time this year that he needs to help me. So it’s more that I have Oscar’s help when needs be, but he's still going out with the intent of every session just fighting for himself and going to do his job," Norris told GPblog and others.
Norris seems adamant that Piastri is not going to sacrifice his own performance for the sake of helping Norris' championship hopes. The Brit was asked whether, in the case where Piastri is outperforming Norris, the Australian would automatically give Norris wins. Norris simply responded, "No." Norris then elaborates on this, specifying that the team orders will likely not come into play for race wins, but rather for the lower points scoring positions. "In general, probably for lower positions. But if he's fought for a win and he's deserving of a win, then he deserves to win."
‘Would automatically give Norris wins. Norris simply responded, "No”;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30045...r-piastri.html
Has McLaren Picked Lando As It's #1 F1 Driver? - Azerbaijan GP Preview
11 Sep 2024
Motorsport.com
After Monza, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella gave the media his biggest hint yet that the team may start favouring Lando Norris in pursuit of both major titles.
Will we see that in Baku? Charles Leclerc has always gone well at the track, with three straight pole-positons, but has played down his chances of back-to-back wins. Is he bluffing?
‘#1 F1 Driver?’;
https://www.motorsport.com/f1/video/...review/654861/
Vasseur reveals Ferrari's approach to the Azerbaijan GP weekend
11 Sept 2024
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
Following Ferrari's win at the Italian Grand Prix, Fred Vasseur is reassured that he is implementing the correct methods at the team. "The Baku street circuit features a combination of very high speed sections and extremely twisty ones, presenting a unique set of challenges. In the past, we have usually been quite competitive here and it is also one of Charles’ favourites. We are on a high following the win in Monza and we are determined to maintain this run of form," Vasseur said. Despite those three pole positions, Leclerc has never won a GP in Baku.
Vasseur doesn't want to be distracted by what his rivals are doing. "Once again, we can expect to see a very close fight between the top four teams. I often say we are focussing on ourselves and it’s clear this is the right approach, because we have seen a dramatic change in the hierarchy among the teams since the early part of the season. Our win in Italy also supports my view that how you execute the weekend from Friday to Sunday can play as important a role as the actual performance level of the car, so with Charles and Carlos we will again be aiming to do everything perfectly in Baku, to try and bring home another very good result for the team," he concluded.”
‘Ferrari's approach’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30027...d-in-baku.html
Mercedes explain why the Azerbaijan Grand Prix is "unusual"
10 Sept 2024
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is known for producing high-drama moments, and Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ director of trackside engineering, doesn't expect that to be different during the 2024 Formula 1 season.
"Baku is an unusual circuit because you’ve got this really tight, twisty, very low speed sector two, and then this really long straight. It requires a relatively low wing level; that isn’t what you’d normally have with all those low-speed corners, but you’ve got to have it with the long straight," Shovlin explained.
"It’s also a weekend where you can get a lot of incidents affecting the race, it’s very easy if a driver makes a mistake there that will have to bring out a safety car in order to clear it up. The other issue you’ve got this year is any given track you can end up with at least three if not four teams all within a tenth or two of each other. That makes it very hard to predict where they’re all going to fall in qualifying, and where people will stack out in race pace," Shovlin detailed more challenges.
"Unusual";
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30001...rand-prix.html
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F1 - 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix - Thursday Press Conference Transcript.
PART ONE – Oliver BEARMAN (Haas), Franco COLAPINTO (Williams), Zhou GUANYU (Sauber)
PART TWO – Daniel RICCIARDO (RB), Pierre GASLY (Alpine), Fernando ALONSO (Aston Martin)
12.09.24
FIA (Press Release)
Oliver BEARMAN: Yeah, it's nice to be back, first of all. Of course, not the circumstances I would have hoped, but nonetheless, it's a great opportunity to build up my experience, get a full weekend under my belt, like you said. With some notice this time. I've known it was coming, which is helpful. And yeah, I just want to use it to really build up step by step and enjoy it as well.
Franco COLAPINTO: It was very special. It's amazing to see here so many people. In F2, there were so little, and now it's full! But I'm very happy to be here. It was a very special moment in my career. Of course, you always work for that goal and that dream, since you are very little. And to have achieved it in Monza… It's very late notice. I was in the sim for F2, preparing the race of Monza, with the MP team. Suddenly, I got a call that I had to go to England and I did the best prep I could, but it was very little.
Zhou GUANYU: Honestly, I think just enjoy the weekend because I think… especially, I think, for Ollie who has already done a whole weekend. He know how this is feeling. And for Franco, I think he will just enjoy all the races, like I did in my first season. I mean you know like the circumstances are different but I think every driver especially in F2 really wants to take that chance and here is the perfect platform for them to shine and have a nice future. So, yeah, I just wish them all the best but not to go too fast though and stay behind.
Fernando ALONSO: Well, it has been a positive week, for sure, for the team with the announcement and yeah, he's a great addition to the team. And probably, for me, what I think is that the Aston Martin team is the team of the future, in a way. We are just opening new buildings at the factory, the campus. Building 2 is finished. Wind tunnel will be January. Honda, Aramco, the best partners in the world, probably, and now Adrian as well. So, yeah, I think the team is taking shape and Lawrence’s vision is taking shape. So, yeah, good news this week.
Daniel RICCIARDO: I don't think I could give much advice to the most experienced guy on the grid. But look, obviously I enjoyed... I've spoken it before. I enjoyed a lot of my time with him. And it was just even a privilege, when I joined Red Bull Racing in 2014, just to drive one of his cars, work alongside him. Obviously, his level of expertise in his field and, you know, I would normally just feed back things. It's not that I could stand toe to toe with him and speak his language, if you know what I mean. But it was just to try and obviously collaborate in those years and collaborate. Give what I could and then let him obviously work his magic.
Pierre GASLY: Yeah, it is true. I mean, yeah, it was a very special six months working with him, you know. Very similar comments to Daniel. Obviously, he got the chance to work for a much longer time, but he's one of the most successful car designers in our sport. And he's got a very unique way of approaching racing, approaching design, because similar to Daniel, I would walk in the factory and see him in front of his board, drawing all sorts of stuff, which I could not even tell what was really going on there but ultimately, it just seems to work when it gets to the track.
‘Press Conference Transcript’;
https://www.fia.com/news/f1-2024-aze...nce-transcript
Verstappen, Red Bull seek to bounce back at Azerbaijan GP
12 Sep 2024
Gulf Today
Max Verstappen will look for an improved personal and team performance this weekend when Red Bull seek to stop the rot and stay on top in the Formula One title race at this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
“Monza was a tough race for us and it is our priority to get our form back to where it needs to be,” said Verstappen. “We always want to be more competitive and the team has been working hard on the issues we’ve had.”
“We’ve had a good period of reflection and work since the last race,” said Perez. “Both Max and I have been in the factory working to ensure we are finding a fix for the problems. To get back to where we should be on the grid, it will take a team effort and you can see that every day in Milton Keynes. This has pulled us all together.”
‘Bounce back’;
https://www.gulftoday.ae/sport/2024/...-azerbaijan-gp
Sergio Perez makes audacious Red Bull prediction for Azerbaijan GP and Singapore
McLaren could overtake Red Bull in the F1 contructors' championship at the 2024 Azerbaijan GP
12 Sept 2024
Adam Dickinson
Total Motorsport
“I think at the moment, with the current package we have, these two should be our best tracks,” Perez told members of the press including Total-Motorsport.com. “These two upcoming races should be our best ones.”
“I do expect us to look more competitive here. But if we are able to fix the issue, then we can get back to contention because it’s something that can bring a lot of lap time to us. Like always on a weekend, it’s not ideal to be testing stuff,” Perez added. “But we will try and get to the bottom of the issues. “I think they’ve been here since the beginning.”
“But probably they felt like it was not so noticeable and Max was coping well with them, it was not such an issue. It’s something that will help both drivers. But like I’ve said before, it will help me even more, because of the driving style I have.”
‘Audacious Red Bull prediction’;
https://www.total-motorsport.com/ser...azerbaijan-gp/
McLaren to lead F1 title race for first time in a decade? 2024 Azerbaijan GP preview
Sept 12th 2024
Cambridge Kisby
Motor Sport Magazine
F1 has said farewell to Europe for 2024 and now heads to Azerbaijan where twisting Old City streets, combined with long straights and the gusts that have earned Baku its ‘windy city’ label, give race engineers plenty of set-up challenges.
Following on from a 2-3 finish in Italy, McLaren now trails Red Bull by just eight points in the constructors’ standings. The team has outscored the reigning champions by more than that margin in the previous five races, so Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will have high hopes of taking the lead in the teams’ title race on Sunday afternoon.
McLaren team principal Andreas Stella: “We need to be better at capitalising [on] the opportunity Red Bull at the moment seem to offer by not being in the usual possibility of competing for podiums,” he said. “It’s definitely a worthwhile exercise to review in the specifics, not only of the entire race but the entire race. Even on the first lap, because I hope we will be in the condition to have these situations frequently in the future – it means the two McLarens will start from the front of the grid. But we need to make sure that this is the best for the team and the best for Lando.”
‘High hopes of taking the lead’;
https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/a...?nowprocket=1#
FIA lengthens DRS zone for F1 Azerbaijan GP
12 Sep 2024
Jack Oliver Smith
Motorsport Week
The FIA has decided to extend a DRS zone for the second Formula 1 Grand Prix on the bounce, with the start-finish straight at the Baku City Circuit extended by 100 meters.
After the sport’s governing body chose to lengthen the DRS zone at the corresponding straight at the Monza circuit for the Italian Grand Prix two weeks ago, a similar action as been taken ahead of this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with the aim once again being to increase the probability of overtaking.
‘Lengthens DRS zone by 100 meters’;
https://www.motorsportweek.com/2024/...azerbaijan-gp/
Vasseur reveals Ferrari's approach to the Azerbaijan GP weekend
11 Sept 2024
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
Following Ferrari's win at the Italian Grand Prix, Fred Vasseur is reassured that he is implementing the correct methods at the team. After previous success at the venue, the Ferrari team boss feels confident that the Italian team can compete at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku.
"The Baku street circuit features a combination of very high speed sections and extremely twisty ones, presenting a unique set of challenges. In the past, we have usually been quite competitive here and it is also one of Charles’ favourites. We are on a high following the win in Monza and we are determined to maintain this run of form," Vasseur said. Despite those three pole positions, Leclerc has never won a GP in Baku.
"Once again, we can expect to see a very close fight between the top four teams. I often say we are focussing on ourselves and it’s clear this is the right approach, because we have seen a dramatic change in the hierarchy among the teams since the early part of the season. Our win in Italy also supports my view that how you execute the weekend from Friday to Sunday can play as important a role as the actual performance level of the car, so with Charles and Carlos we will again be aiming to do everything perfectly in Baku, to try and bring home another very good result for the team," he concluded.
‘Ferrari's approach to the Azerbaijan GP weekend’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30027...d-in-baku.html
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Verstappen sets pace as THREE red flags wreck Azerbaijan GP first practice.
If that was an indicator for the rest of the weekend then it could get very messy.
13 Sept 2024
Ian Parkes
RacingNews365
Max Verstappen emerged quickest from a remarkable first practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix punctuated by three red flags, including a crash for Ferrari's Charles Leclerc. Less than two weeks after producing a superb drive to win Ferrari's home Italian Grand Prix at Monza, those memories were swiftly banished as Leclerc crashed after 26 minutes of the opening practice session at the Baku Street Circuit.
Leclerc was at the top of the times and had just purpled the first sector on another hot lap when he ploughed nose-first into a barrier at the sharp Turn 15 left-hander. It was the second red flag of the session as it had also been stopped after 18 minutes to allow a marshal to remove a piece of metal debris off the track, resulting in a five-minute hiatus.
The third then followed with 19 minutes remaining, and this time it was Williams rookie Franco Colapinto, on his first trip to Baku in any category, who smacked into a wall at the Turn 4 right-hander. Colapinto simply caught a part of the dusty track which resulted in him sliding left-rear first into the concrete, with the resultant force leading to the front-left following suit.
‘It could get very messy’;
https://racingnews365.com/verstappen...first-practice
Azerbaijan GP: Free Practice 1 Results
13 Sept 2024
Mat Coch
Speedcafe
Full results from Free Practice 1 from the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku Street Circuit.
Pos Num Driver Team Laps Best Diff
1 1 Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing 20 1:45.546
2 44 Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 18 1:45.859 0.313
3 11 Sergio Perez Red Bull Racing 16 1:45.922 0.376
4 4 Lando Norris McLaren 17 1:46.027 0.481
5 55 Carlos Sainz Ferrari 20 1:46.173 0.627
6 81 Oscar Piastri McLaren 17 1:46.282 0.736
7 14 Fernando Alonso Aston Martin 18 1:46.452 0.906
8 63 George Russell Mercedes 17 1:46.516 0.970
9 16 Charles Leclerc Ferrari 11 1:46.608 1.062
10 3 Daniel Ricciardo RB 22 1:46.687 1.141
‘Full results from Free Practice 1’;
https://speedcafe.com/azerbaijan-gp-...ice-1-results/
Red Bull's first attempt at fixing its F1 car problems
Sep 13, 2024
Scott Mitchell-Malm
The Race
Red Bull's floor upgrade at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix is a first attempt to address the development issues that have hurt its 2024 Formula 1 car, with bigger fixes yet to come. Red Bull has revised the tunnel geometry on its RB20's latest floor with the aim of 'improving pressure gradients along the floor' for better underbody aerodynamic performance.
"The lessons are kind of ongoing, and the immediate reaction tends to be [seen in] the later races," Monaghan said. "So, it's a testament to everybody that we got it here. A lot of hard work, and that hard work will continue. Singapore's only a week away. So that will be potentially another evolution for us.”
"The scale of the update kind of determines the phase lag in there. If we've managed to do it for this race, it's not the biggest one we'll ever undertake in terms of geometry change. It's subtle. Could the effect be good? Yes. And I think the proof of the pudding will be on Sunday afternoon."
‘Fixing its F1 car problems’;
https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/r...jan-gp-update/
Verstappen tops heavily disrupted session with new Red Bull upgrades
Sep 13, 2024
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
Max Verstappen topped the first free practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend as Red Bull Racing introduced new upgrades. The session was heavily disrupted, with three red flags. Lewis Hamilton finished second, with Sergio Perez in third. Lando Norris rounded out the top four.
With five minutes remaining, Verstappen put the soft tyres on and completed a lap in anger. He was quickest in sector one and two, but lost a bit of time in sector three compared to the best in the session. It was good enough overall to take him to P2. Right at the end of the session, Verstappen moved to the top of the timesheets.
Red Bull Racing introduced new upgraded this weekend as they hope to recover from the disappointing Italian GP weekend. Sergio Perez finished third fastest with a late lap. Mercedes decided to run their older floor for this session.
‘Verstappen tops heavily disrupted session’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30065...1-in-baku.html
Leclerc blames 'the dirt' for this FP1 crash in Baku
Sep 13, 2024
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
Charles Leclerc has crashed in the streets of Baku. The Ferrari driver won the Italian Grand Prix last weekend, but this crash could end up knocking his confidence. The man from Monaco has already identified the blame: the dirt.
With the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend taking place on a street circuit, dirt can often appear in FP1. It seems to have caught Leclerc out in the opening 30 minutes to the FP1 session. He said on the radio: "I took the dirt on the outside". caused the second red flag of the session. A piece of debris was found on the circuit earlier in the session. Leclerc will not be able to return to the track until FP2.
'The dirt';
https://www.gpblog.com/en/videos/300...1-in-baku.html
HIGHLIGHTS: Watch the action from FP1 as Leclerc and Colapinto crash while Verstappen sets the pace in Baku
Sep 13, 2024
Formula One - Official Site
Max Verstappen set the pace during FP1 for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, as Charles Leclerc and Franco Colapinto crashed out on the streets of Baku.
In what was a disrupted session that saw three red flags (the first to clear debris while the other two were required for the aforementioned crashes), Red Bull's reigning world champion left it late to post the quickest time of 1m 45.546s. That was ultimately 0.313s faster than second-placed Lewis Hamilton.
Red Bull's Sergio Perez posted the third fastest time at the track where he is a two-time winner, while Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz rounded out the top five.
‘Watch the action from FP1’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...3IXzAxNLxD7rOc
F1 Azerbaijan GP 2024 – Free Practice 1 Results
Red Bull were the early pace setters thanks to Max Verstappen to topped FP1 at the 2024 Azerbaijan GP
13 Sept 2024
John Smith
Total Motorsport
Charles Leclerc, a Baku street circuit specialist with pole positions in the last three years, had a strong start on medium tyres. However, his session was cut short after he lost control and hit the wall at Turn 15, bringing out the red flag with 30 minutes to go.
The temporary street circuit, which is only used once a year for Formula 1, had low grip levels, making it challenging for drivers to find their rhythm. Verstappen though, managed to clock a 1:45.546s in the final moments to top the timesheets. Mercedes’ Hamilton followed closely in second, just 0.313s behind the Red Bull driver.
Sergio Perez secured third place, 0.376s off the top spot, while McLaren’s Lando Norris continued his strong form, finishing fourth. Carlos Sainz of Ferrari slotted into fifth, with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri in sixth.
‘Free Practice 1 Results’;
https://www.total-motorsport.com/f1-...ice-1-results/
'It's overly political': Jacques Villeneuve ‘didn’t like’ what Oscar Piastri said in Azerbaijan Grand Prix interview
13 Sept 2024
David Comerford
F1 Oversteer
Jacques Villeneuve unhappy with ‘overly political’ Oscar Piastri interview. During his grilling in the pen, Piastri said he wouldn’t let Norris pass every time he’s ahead. He does accept, however, that winning the drivers’ title is ‘a big goal’ for the team.
After listening to his interview on Sky Sports F1, pundit Jacques Villeneuve expressed his frustration with the ‘overly political’ communications strategy at McLaren. The 1997 world champion claims the drivers can’t ‘say what they really feel’.
Norris accepted team orders at the Hungarian GP when the pit wall wanted to restore Piastri’s lead. He repeatedly expressed his reluctance before eventually doing so. “I didn’t like this interview,” Villeneuve said. “It’s overly political. You can tell the drivers cannot say what they really feel inside. It’s only the contracts. They cannot stop Piastri from going for his own personal win, but they can force him to work for the team.”
'It's overly political';
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/jac...rix-interview/
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Full Azerbaijan GP FP2 results: Leclerc pips Perez to P1, Hamilton P3.
Just +0.006 seconds separated the Monegaque and the Mexican drivers when the chequered flag fell, with Leclerc able to set a flying lap on the softs with just 12 minutes remaining in FP2.
13 Sep 2024
Olly Darcy
GPblog.com
Charles Leclerc was able to just edge out Sergio Perez in the second free practice session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, taking P1 ahead of the updated Red Bull.
It was a great result for Leclerc, who crashed out in FP1 earlier and missed half of the session. The Ferrari mechanics were able to fix the car before FP2 got underway, but complaints from the Monegasque about the steering meant he was forced to come in for more repairs. However, after all of that, he was able to go fastest.
Behind the tightly packed front three was the other Ferrari of Carlos Sainz in P4, while the McLaren of Oscar Piastri finished just +0.033 behind the Spaniard in P5. Max Verstappen could only finish sixth after his P1 in FP1, with the Dutchman going straight on twice in what was a sloppy session. Lance Stroll, Nico Hulkenberg, George Russell and rookie Ollie Bearman rounded out the top ten.
‘Just +0.006 seconds’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30076...l-results.html
Azerbaijan GP: Free Practice 2 Results
14 Sep 2024
Mat Coch
Speedcafe
Full results from Free Practice 2 from the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku Street Circuit.
Pos Num Driver Team Laps Best Diff
1 16 Charles Leclerc Ferrari 19 1:43.484
2 11 Sergio Perez Red Bull Racing 22 1:43.490 0.006
3 44 Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 21 1:43.550 0.066
4 55 Carlos Sainz Ferrari 24 1:43.950 0.466
5 81 Oscar Piastri McLaren 24 1:43.983 0.499
6 1 Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing 23 1:44.029 0.545
7 18 Lance Stroll Aston Martin 23 1:44.093 0.609
8 27 Nico Hulkenberg Haas 23 1:44.475 0.991
9 63 George Russell Mercedes 16 1:44.536 1.052
10 50 Oliver Bearman Haas 23 1:44.547 1.063
‘Full results from Free Practice 2’;
https://speedcafe.com/azerbaijan-gp-...ice-2-results/
2024 Azerbaijan GP FP2: Concerned Leclerc pits and insists ‘I’m not driving this car anymore’
13 Sept 2024
Formula One - Official Site (Video)
Charles Leclerc crashed his Ferrari in first practice, and although the team got it repaired in time for FP2, the Monegasque wasn’t happy with the feel of the car and pitted after just a few minutes of the session.
“I’m not driving this car anymore”;
https://www.formula1.com/en/video/20...90741201817899
Azerbaijan Grand Prix: F1 Free Practice 2 results
Did the drivers get more running than in the first session?
Sept 13, 2024
Lena Ferle
FormulaNerds
The first qualifying simulations: With little over 30 minutes on the clock, the first drivers strapped on the soft tyres to test qualifying laps. Norris was on a fast lap but encountered a slow-moving Gasly, which ruined his run, otherwise he would’ve set the new fastest lap.
Track evolution played a major role in the fast laps – Perez’s time of 1:43.490 was almost half a second faster than second-placed Carlos Sainz. Leclerc and Russell still hadn’t completed a flying lap on soft tyres, while the rest of the grid had done so. Perez topped the timesheets, just 0.060s ahead of Hamilton, who managed his best lap despite running on seven laps old soft tyres. Sainz sat in third, with Piastri, Verstappen, and Stroll close behind.
The final minutes: As the track continued to improve and gain grip, Leclerc was expected to set the fastest time. He posted a 1m 43.484s, just 0.006s ahead of Perez, though he did benefit from a tow during his flying lap. Russell had previously only been out on the hard tyres, but with only seven minutes left, he did his first laps on the soft tyres. He set a time that put him in 9th place.
‘F1 Free Practice 2 results’;
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/az.../?nowprocket=1
2024 F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix - Free Practice 2 results
13 Sept 2024
Ian Parkes
RacingNews365
After complaining about a 'bent' Ferrari early in the session following repairs made to his SF-24 after a crash in FP1, Charles Leclerc returned to the Baku Street Circuit late on to post the fastest time. Two-time race winner at this circuit, Sergio Perez, finished just 0.006s behind Leclerc in his Red Bull, with Lewis Hamilton marginally behind his two rivals in his Mercedes.
Three-time F1 champion Max Verstappen was only the sixth quickest, just over half-a-second adrift, with F1 title rival Lando Norris a lowly 17th, albeit that time set on medium-compound Pirelli rubber as the Briton did not post a representative soft-tyre run.
‘Complaining about a 'bent' Ferrari’;
https://racingnews365.com/2024-f1-az...tice-2-results
Norris and Verstappen struggle in tight FP2 at 2024 Azerbaijan GP as Leclerc tops times
There was plenty of action in Free Practice 2 at the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix as Charles Leclerc ends the session fastest
13 Sept 2024
Brandon Sutton
Total Motorsport
Max Verstappen and Lando Norris found themselves uncomfortable with their cars during FP2 at the 2024 Azerbaijan GP with the odds for the race still wide open as Charles Leclerc and Ferrari topped the times on Friday, September 13.
The Monegasque didn’t have an easy time either but posted a 1:43.484 to top the timing boards at the Baku City Circuit as he and Verstappen took repeat trips down the escape roads as Norris struggled to get a good time on the board in their three-way fight for the F1 2024 titles.
The Ferrari star is trying to get his weekend back on track after a crash in FP1 but found himself flirting with the walls once again after he took to the escape road at the scene of his Turn 15 as well as his famous 2019 crash when he branded himself stupid.
‘Struggle’;
https://www.total-motorsport.com/nor...rc-tops-times/
F1 Azerbaijan GP: Leclerc leads Perez by 0.006s in tight FP2
A 1m43.484s proved good enough for Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to deny Red Bull a clean sweep of Friday practice sessions
Sep 13, 2024
Jake Boxall-Legge
Motorsport.com
Ferrari repaired Leclerc's car after his Turn 15 shunt in the opening stage of Friday practice, but the Monegasque proved irascible on the radio and made his displeasure about his rebuilt SF-24 clear after crashing in FP1, feeling that the steering was 'heavy'. He elected to pit amid further handling struggles.
This caused a slight layoff in running, and he returned to the circuit later in the session for a few exploratory laps on the medium tyre; despite an off at Turn 8, he was able to keep it out of the wall for a tilt on the soft tyres. This led him to set a 1m43.484s time, eclipsing Perez's time from earlier.
‘Ferrari repaired Leclerc's car’;
https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f...lerc/10653805/
Azerbaijan GP: Max Verstappen misses top five as Charles Leclerc mounts FP2 fightback
13 Sep 2024
Jamie Woodhouse
PlanetF1.com
Verstappen, fastest in FP1, was first out as the light went green, armed with the mediums tyres, as was Leclerc after Ferrari got his SF-24 back in working order, following his FP1 date with the barriers. Williams needed a bit more time to get Franco Colapinto’s FW46 back on track.
Leclerc’s frustrations were starting to escalate, as he declared it “impossible” that Ferrari could not see anything on the data. He duly returned to the pits, with Perez now leading a Red Bull one-two. Verstappen survived a major scare though, locking up and coming to a stop inches from the wall at Turn 5, while Hulkenberg was getting upset with Perez who “thinks we’re racing” through the tight second sector.
The low, setting sun was causing visibility issues for Verstappen, who took to the run-off at Turn 7, but Perez was flying on the softs as he returned to P1, almost half a second clear of Sainz. Leclerc was at last back out on track, but still was not having it all his own way as he found the Turn 8 run-off, while Sainz was checking out the Turn 3 escape route. Colapinto was fortune to withstand a heavy whack of the inside barrier at the ultra-tight Turn 8/9.
“Impossible”;
https://www.planetf1.com/news/azerba...024-fp2-report
2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix – Free Practice 2 F1 results (Baku)
13 Sep 2024
Michelle Foster
PlanetF1.com
As the drivers laid down the laps, trips up the escape roads and the subsequent yellow flags were prevalent, including one for reigning World Champion Verstappen. Halfway through the session, Carlos Sainz was up in P1 with a 1:43.950, putting him 0.033s up on Oscar Piastri with Verstappen a further 0.04s. Leclerc was in the pits surrounded by a red wall of Ferrari mechanics as the team tried to resolve his steering issue.
However, back on track with a fresh set of soft tyres on his SF-24, Leclerc clocked a 1:43.484 to beat Perez by a mere 0.006s. Hamilton was third, 0.06s down. Sainz was fourth fastest ahead of Piastri while Verstappen was only P6, 0.545s off the pace. Lance Stroll, Nico Hulkenberg and Russell were next in line with the Briton covering just 16 laps with a late call to box as Mercedes noted an issue with the car. Oliver Bearman completed the top ten for Haas.
‘Laid down the laps, trips up the escape roads and the subsequent yellow flags’;
https://www.planetf1.com/news/f1-res...-prix-baku-fp2
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Leclerc explains rollercoaster start to Azerbaijan GP weekend after FP1 crash and peculiar FP2 problem.
Charles Leclerc experienced an up-and-down first day on the streets of Baku as the Ferrari driver overcame a crash during first practice and car troubles in the second session to finish at the top of Friday’s timesheets.
13 Sep 2024
Formula One - Official Site
Charles Leclerc: “That wasn’t great to start the weekend, but I still had a lot of confidence in the car, so there wasn’t much problem. Then the thing is that when we started FP2 there was an actual problem on the car that we saw later on, once I stopped, and we changed that particular part.”
“It was nothing to do with the crash before, so the mechanics have done a really good job. We just had a problem with one new part that we had just put on the car. I won’t go too much into details but that was obviously giving me a very strange feeling with the steering wheel. We changed that, went again and then it was fine. It was not as many laps as what I would have hoped for on this Friday, but competitive anyway.”
“We still have to work on the car, there’s plenty to do to improve. There’s the driving to be improved quite a bit, because I was still taking a little bit my references in FP2, but again, we are fast, so that’s a good sign. Hopefully just more to come tomorrow.”
‘Rollercoaster start’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...pR5scyRt4AXQYg
'Affinity with the walls': Jacques Villeneuve mocks Charles Leclerc after Azerbaijan Grand Prix crash
13 Sep 2024
Luke-John Buckle
F1 Oversteer
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend began with multiple drivers crashing on the unforgiving streets of Baku and causing red flags. The Baku City Circuit is a street track that requires a lot of confidence to maximise the lap time with minimal margin for error in Formula 1. Villeneuve was far from impressed by Leclerc’s antics in first practice, as other drivers have avoided the wall after a similar incident.
He said: “An affinity with its walls as well. You can see that he even missed the kerb on the inside. So he wasn’t thrown off. You could see with the skids, he just arrived with too much speed. And like we’ve seen other drivers when they realise they’re too fast, they opt for going off, going straight, then reversing, and he didn’t make that call.”
'Affinity with the walls';
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/jac...nd-prix-crash/
Perez has pace, but there’s no doubt who Verstappen’s team mate is here to help
13th Sep 2024
Will Wood
RaceFans
Since Sergio Perez last flew out of Azerbaijan following his victory in Baku in April 2023 – over 500 days ago – there has been little for the veteran Red Bull driver to celebrate on track. But in a sport where there are few true friends, where the only one you can rely on is yourself, Baku has arguably been kinder to Perez than anyone or anything else in Formula 1. With two victories and five podiums from seven starts – both records for this distinctive track – Perez can always rely on Baku for a strong result, even if he’s been in the midst of one of his all-too-frequent slumps in form over the years.
Perez described his Friday as a “good, solid day”. Verstappen, who had looked atypically ragged around the Baku circuit during the session was also “quite confident” about the team’s early performance following a very disappointing showing at Monza last time out. But although Verstappen was slower than his team mate, it’s easy to see why looking into the data.
Taking both Red Bull drivers’ fastest laps from Friday, there was a clear set-up difference between the two team mates. While Verstappen was able to carry significantly higher minimum speed at the apexes through the many 90-degree corners – as much as 6kph in turns four and seven – Perez was easily quicker on the straights by an even greater amount. Verstappen went from being almost two tenths up on Perez heading down to turn 16 to falling to more than half a second adrift of his team mate by the time he reached the end of the lap.
‘Perez has pace’;
https://www.racefans.net/2024/09/13/...-here-to-help/
Red Bull drivers hail ‘positive’ and ‘promising’ first day in Baku with Perez confident of being ‘in the mix’ for pole
13 Sep 2024
Formula One - Official Site
Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen both expressed optimism after Red Bull appeared to take a step in the right direction with the RB20 on the opening day of practice for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. As cars hit the track on the streets of Baku, though, there were early signs that Red Bull – who are running an upgrade on their floor this weekend – have potentially turned a corner.
“It was definitely a good, solid day,” said Perez, who finished P2, a mere six-thousandths of a second away from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, and has been working hard to find a breakthrough after significant struggles on his side of the garage. Asked if that gives him hope of fighting for pole, the Mexican added: “I think tomorrow anything can happen, really, so we just have to keep our head down and hopefully deliver a great couple of laps. Well, we only need one in Q3!”
Verstappen, meanwhile, was around half a second slower than Leclerc, having experienced several lock-ups and off-track excursions but been left with a similarly positive feeling about his and the team’s prospects. “I think overall a good day,” he commented. “We learned quite a bit. Now it’s just about tidying up the things that we tried. But I think, so far, we have been more competitive this weekend, so that’s a positive.”
‘In the mix for pole’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...VdphBaBqLPXivP
Alarm bells ring for Norris as he tells McLaren 'we've got a lot to find'
13 Sep 2024
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
Lando Norris was downbeat after the first two practice sessions during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend. Norris does have some concerns over his car's performance. "We're quite a long way off. I'm having to push way too much to try and get a lap time out of it. I think where Oscar was is kind of more where we are. So I think if we nail it, we're just about there, but I'm sure they're not even close to nailing it yet. I think we have quite a lot to find, honestly," Norris said bluntly.
Norris and McLaren are chasing Red Bull in the F1 Constructors' Championship, but he sees a broader problem with more teams capable of winning in Baku. "Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull, they're all very similar. And then there's a good three, four tenth gap back to us so a lot of work to do. Ferrari are very quick here. Mercedes will be quick with these track conditions. It's very slidey out there. We perform well on the higher grip circuits. Finding it difficult but we'll work hard tonight," Norris added.
‘Alarm bells ring’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30077...e-in-baku.html
Ted Kravitz notes something ‘strange’ that Lando Norris said to the media at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix
13 Sep 2024
Tyler Rowlinson
F1 Oversteer
Ted Kravitz notes the ‘strange’ thing Lando Norris said to the media about Budapest. The topic of team orders at McLaren and whether they will prioritise Norris as their best chance to win the title has been going on since the Italian Grand Prix. Norris looked sick of the media in Azerbaijan as a result of the constant questioning as many try to figure out how the team are going to play it with their two drivers.
One of the major talking points from McLaren this season was back in Hungary, as Norris was forced to let Piastri back past for the win after the former ended up ahead after the second pit stop. Speaking on Ted’s Podbook, Ted Kravitz noted that Norris was questioned in the media pen about the matter in the wake of the discussion around team orders. The pit lane reporter could not help but be bewildered by the McLaren driver’s comments on the situation in Budapest.
“This is a strange thing that Lando said,” he said. “It was put to him, you know, what about the lost points in Hungary where you gave the position back to Oscar and arguably the P2 in Monza? And Lando said: ‘look I’ve not lost on any points. I’m very happy with how we’ve worked as a team and we’ve got the points that we deserve,’ so I think you can tell what’s going on there.”
‘Not lost on any points’;
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/ted...an-grand-prix/
Piastri “in the ballpark” in tight Azerbaijan GP battle
Oscar Piastri believes McLaren is “in the ballpark” following the opening day of running at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
14 Sep 2024
Mat Coch
Speedcafe
Piastri was fifth fastest in the day’s second practice session, half-a-tenth away from the time posted by Charles Leclerc. “I think it’s been a decent day,” the Australian reasoned. “It’s a bit hard to know at the moment, with the track evolving so much still, but our pace seems in the ballpark.”
“Very slippery, much slipperier than it has been, I would say, in the last few years,” Piastri said when asked about the conditions. I think that’s why we’re seeing the track get quicker and quicker. It’s not easy out there, definitely and it’s quite inconsistent, but the same challenge for everyone.”
“In the ballpark”;
https://speedcafe.com/piastri-in-the...jan-gp-battle/
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Full Azerbaijan GP FP3 results: Russell takes P1 from Leclerc, Norris P3.
George Russell just beats Charles Leclerc to P1 in the final free practice session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with both of them beating the McLaren of Lando Norris in P3.
14 Sep 2024
Olly Darcy
GPblog.com
In the final few minutes of the session, Russell was able to find the extra pace and set the fastest lap of the session, highlighting the straight-line speed that Mercedes have around the Baku City Circuit and showing that qualifying later in the day will be extremely close to call.
Behind him by just +0.050 seconds was Leclerc in the Ferrari, who has looked very consistent all weekend. The Monegasque driver is searching for his fourth pole position in a row in Baku. Norris, who has been off the pace for the majority of the weekend, finally put a lap together and showed he still has some speed with his McLaren.
Behind Norris was his teammate Oscar Piastri in P4, with Max Verstappen and his updated Red Bull only quick enough for P5 despite his first place in FP1 on Friday. Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez were P6 and P7, respectively.
‘FP3 results’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30094...baku-2024.html
Azerbaijan GP: Free Practice 3 Results
14 Sep 2024
Mat Coch
Speedcafe
Full results from Free Practice 3 from the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku Street Circuit.
Pos Num Driver Team Laps Best Diff
1 63 George Russell Mercedes 15 1:42.514
2 16 Charles Leclerc Ferrari 15 1:42.527 0.013
3 4 Lando Norris McLaren 14 1:42.737 0.223
4 81 Oscar Piastri McLaren 12 1:42.749 0.235
5 1 Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing 14 1:42.864 0.350
6 55 Carlos Sainz Ferrari 15 1:42.968 0.454
7 11 Sergio Perez Red Bull Racing 14 1:43.024 0.510
8 23 Alex Albon Williams 12 1:43.194 0.680
9 43 Franco Colapinto Williams 13 1:43.238 0.724
10 44 Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 13 1:43.301 0.787
‘Full results from Free Practice 3’;
https://speedcafe.com/azerbaijan-gp-...ice-3-results/
Azerbaijan Grand Prix: F1 Free Practice 3 results
Who will find the sweet spot for their set-up ahead of a tricky qualifying session?
Sep 14, 2024
Nathan Hartley
FormulaNerds
The light turned green, once again, with just over a third of the session to go. Norris was the first driver to exit the pitlane. The Briton hasn’t managed to set a lap time so far. The McLaren driver went quickest, setting a 1:44.226, going a tenth-and-a-half quicker than Albon’s time. Meanwhile, Hamilton went deep into Turn Three, bringing out brief yellow flags. Albon then responded, smashing Norris’ time with a 1:43.623.
However, Leclerc then went quicker with a 1:43.455. Verstappen set a time good enough for second, setting the fastest middle sector. The Dutchman found himself just over a tenth behind Leclerc. However, Verstappen’s teammate Perez managed to go quickest, going 0.066 seconds quicker than Leclerc. Piastri then smashed the Mexican’s time, going over six tenths quicker with a 1:42.749. The track is improving constantly. George Russell has endured a difficult FP3, with the latest issue going deep into Turn Two.
The Briton reported that “the ride feels terrible down the straight under braking”. Meanwhile, Hamilton set a lap good enough for second – over half-a-second behind Piastri. Leclerc then went quickest, once again, setting a 1:42.564. The Monegasque has been untouchable throughout the first sector with no other driver close. Verstappen set a time good enough for third, going quickest in the middle sector. Norris managed to go within two tenths of Leclerc. However, Russell managed to beat Leclerc’s time with a 1:42.514.
‘Who will find the sweet spot?’;
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/az.../?nowprocket=1
Azerbaijan GP FP3: Ocon stops on track to bring out red flags in final practice
Sep 14, 2024
Formula One - Official Site (Video)
Final practice for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was halted 15 minutes into the session after Esteban Ocon suffered a mechanical failure and was forced to park his Alpine on track.
‘Azerbaijan GP FP3’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/video/az...61270993582613
F1 Azerbaijan GP 2024 – Free Practice 3 Results
14 Sep 2024
John Smith
Total Motorsport
George Russell was fastest in FP3 at the 2024 Azerbaijan GP, the final practice session before Qualifying. With four teams in the fight for pole position, George Russell topped the timesheet of the third and final practice session in Baku, just ahead of Charles Leclerc in the 2024 Azerbaijan GP Free Practice 3 results.
Another practice session riddled with red flags as Esteban Ocon had an issue with his Alpine which brought his session to an early end, before Oliver Bearman misjudged Turn 1 and went into the barrier.
The session began under overcast skies and light drizzle, contrasting with the sunny conditions seen in FP1 and FP2. Drivers faced additional challenges on the Baku City Circuit, already known for its dusty and slippery surface. Although the track was slightly damp, slick tyres were still used, with drivers cautiously finding their rhythm.
‘Free Practice 3 Results’;
https://www.total-motorsport.com/f1-...ice-3-results/
Red Bull can counter McLaren in team orders battle in Azerbaijan GP, Christian Horner confirms
McLaren's infamous 'Papaya Rules' debacle has brought team orders into sharp focus in the 2024 F1 title battle with Red Bull
14 Sep 2024
Adam Dickinson
Total Motorsport
Christian Horner underlined that Sergio Perez ‘100%’ knows his role is to support Max Verstappen‘s championship ambitions at Red Bull amid questions over team orders ahead of the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. “You only have to think back to Abu Dhabi 2021 to see what a team player Checo is. So for us, the game plan is pretty straightforward. I’d love that headache, to be managing on the last few laps.”
But an optimistic Horner believes Red Bull have fixed the most pressing problems in time for Baku after heavy experimentation in free practice. “It’s still very very tight but I think we have a better balance in the car and Sergio is more in the comfort zone as well, so it will be about getting that lap perfectly correct,” Horner added.
“What we have been playing with is do you have more downforce to protect that degradation or have less downforce for the straight line speed but have more deg. It’s that fine line. Both drivers are reporting that the nasty characteristics they had in Monza aren’t there.”
‘McLaren's infamous 'Papaya Rules' debacle’;
https://www.total-motorsport.com/red...rner-confirms/
FP3 Highlights: 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix
14 Sep 2024
Formula One - Official Site (Video)
‘Watch highlights from third practice ahead of the 2024 Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/video/fp...67671951307239
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Lando Norris dumped out in Q1 as McLaren apologise over team radio at Azerbaijan GP.
Norris abandoned his flying lap after Esteban Ocon brought out the yellow flags, condemning him to a P17 grid slot on Sunday. McLaren apologised to their star driver over the radio, but there was little they could do to improve his mood.
Sep 14, 2024
Harry Smith
Daily and Sunday Express
Lando Norris will start the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from 17th on the grid after the Brit was knocked out in Q1 following a late yellow flag on his final run of the session.
At the end of Q1, Williams, Haas and Alpine were all represented in the top seven positions. At the other of the order, there was a huge scalp.
‘Little they could do to improve his mood’;
https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...s-Lando-Norris
Lando Norris reacts to huge F1 title blow in Azerbaijan GP qualifying shocker
Lando Norris wants to keep the pressure on Max Verstappen in the Formula 1 title race but suffered a major blow to his chances by failing to get out of Q1 in Baku
Sep 14, 2024
Daniel Moxon Senior F1 Writer
The Mirror
Lando Norris suffered a huge blow to his Formula 1 title hopes as he failed to get out of Q1 during qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The McLaren racer had struggled in practice but would still have expected to be in the fight for pole position for the Baku race. However, it was not to be as he suffered an unexpected Q1 exit - the first time Norris has failed to reach the top 10 on the grid all season.
Track evolution was a major factor and everyone was improving significantly on their final flying laps of Q1. But Norris' was ruined when Esteban Ocon briefly went off track in the final sector, ahead of Norris. Yellow flags were waved and Norris had to slow or risk a punishment. He did so and, as a result, lost his chance to improve his time. He pulled into the pit lane instead of crossing the timing line to confirm his early exit from the session.
Briton smiled ruefully as he said: "Everyone did their second laps and I didn't so just unlucky, that's all. I have to lift [for the yellow flags]. “ Asked if he thinks he can cut through the pack in the race, he replied: "I'm going to have to hope so, aren't I? It is what it is. A long race ahead and we have some good tyres in the bank... I'm still hopeful. I think the car is quick and the lap I was on would have easily gone second. It's a bit frustrating, but nothing I can do."
‘Huge F1 title blow’;
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formu...fying-33668995
Norris suffers shock early exit in Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying
Lando Norris' F1 title hopes have suffered a major blow.
14 Sept 2024
Ian Parkes
RacingNews365
Lando Norris' F1 drivers' championship hopes suffered a major blow following a disastrous qualifying session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Norris will start 17th at the Baku Street Circuit, the McLaren driver's first Q1 exit since last year's inaugural race in Las Vegas.
The Briton headed straight into the pit lane rather than complete the lap, leaving him in a miserable position to start the grand prix, albeit on a track where overtaking is possible. "I had to lift," confirmed Norris, who goes into the race 62 points adrift of championship leader Max Verstappen.
"I had to lift";
https://racingnews365.com/norris-suf...rix-qualifying
Azerbaijan GP Qualifying: Shock in Baku as Norris is knocked out in Q1
14 Sept 2024
Formula One - Official Site (Video)
Title contender Lando Norris will have it all to do in Sunday’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix after the McLaren man was knocked out of qualifying in Q1, down in 17th place.
‘Shock in Baku’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/video/az...75109270308954
Azerbaijan GP: Qualifying Results
14 Sep 2024
Mat Coch
Speedcafe
Full results from Qualifying from the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku Street Circuit.
Pos Num Driver Team Q1 Q2 Q3 Diff
1 16 Charles Leclerc Ferrari 1:42.775 1:42.056 1:41.365
2 81 Oscar Piastri McLaren 1:43.033 1:42.598 1:41.686 0.321
3 55 Carlos Sainz Ferrari 1:43.357 1:42.503 1:41.805 0.440
4 11 Sergio Perez Red Bull Racing 1:43.213 1:42.263 1:41.813 0.448
5 63 George Russell Mercedes 1:43.139 1:42.329 1:41.874 0.509
6 1 Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing 1:43.097 1:42.042 1:42.023 0.658
7 44 Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 1:43.089 1:42.765 1:42.289 0.924
8 14 Fernando Alonso Aston Martin 1:43.472 1:42.426 1:42.369 1.004
9 43 Franco Colapinto Williams 1:43.138 1:42.473 1:42.530 1.165
10 23 Alex Albon Williams 1:42.899 1:42.840 1:42.859 1.494
‘Full results’;
https://speedcafe.com/azerbaijan-gp-qualifying-results/
McLaren’s Lando Norris out of Azerbaijan GP qualifying in first phase
Yellow flags meant the 24-year-old failed to put in a second fast lap in Q1
14 Sep 2024
The Irish Times
McLaren’s Formula One title challenger Lando Norris failed to make it out of the first phase of qualifying at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday and is set to start Sunday’s race in 17th place. The Briton missed out after a yellow flag warning meant he had to slow on his final attempt to get out of the bottom five.
The run-up to the race weekend has been dominated by talk of potential team orders at McLaren and Norris being helped by Australian team-mate Oscar Piastri, who went through to the second phase.
‘Potential team orders at McLaren talk’;
https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/202...n-first-phase/
Full Baku GP qualifying results | Leclerc takes pole, Piastri P2, Sainz P3
14 Sep 2024
Olly Darcy
GPblog.com
Charles Leclerc makes it four pole positions in as many years at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix by taking pole position in Baku ahead of Oscar Piastri and Csrlos Saizn in P2 and P3, respectively. The Ferrari driver continues his Saturday dominance around the Baku City Circuit, making it his fourth pole on the bounce, giving him the perfect opportunity to back up his Italian Grand Prix win last time out.
Behind him was Piastri in P2, but his teammate Lando Norris was eliminated in a shock Q1 exit. Sainz took P3, with Sergio Perez only good enough for P4. George Russell was able to take P5 ahead of a slow Max Verstappen in P6, and an even slower Lewis Hamilton in P7. Fernando Alonso, Franco Colapinto and Alex Albon rounded out the top ten.
‘Leclerc takes pole’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30103...prix-2024.html
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Villeneuve calls out Norris this time for Baku mistake.
According to the 1997 world champion, there is no doubt about Lando Norris being at fault for his early exit in Q1.
14 Sep 2024
Kada Sarkozi
Jacques Villeneuve: "It will be frustrating. I don't remember, I don't think you have to slow down until the yellow flag. And by the time you reach the post, the yellow flag was off. He actually did not need to slow down. So that's a little mistake. He also went off wide in the last corner. So it's not even sure his lap time would have been that good," the Canadian said on Sky Sports.
A difficult pill to swallow for McLaren in Baku: A shock result caused Lando Norris to finish only in P17 in qualifying. Why Andrea Stella struggled to understand why the yellow flags were waved that moment, Jacques Villeneuve declared that Norris' elimination is only the Briton's fault in Azerbaijan.
‘Difficult pill to swallow’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30111...baijan-gp.html
Will Leclerc grab his chance to win in Baku – and even overhaul Norris?
14th Sep 2024
Will Wood
RaceFans
It’s hard to believe that the roll-call of grand prix winners around the Baku City Circuit, including Nico Rosberg, Daniel Ricciardo and Valtteri Bottas, does not feature the driver who now has four pole positions in Azerbaijan to his name. Charles Leclerc will lead the field away on Sunday’s formation lap for the fourth consecutive year, still in pursuit of his first victory in Baku.
“I’ll have to do a bit of homework tonight in order to get ready for tomorrow, but I’m not too worried that we’ll do the best job with our package and then we’ll see whether it’s good enough to win the race tomorrow or not.”
If he is able to win, there’s more than just a victory in the offering for him. Should Leclerc win and Norris fail to score a point, he will jump the McLaren driver to become the closest driver to Verstappen in the championship.
‘Will Leclerc grab his chance?’;
https://www.racefans.net/2024/09/14/...erhaul-norris/
Piastri ‘had a lot less to lose’ in qualifying as he outlines plan to take early race lead in Baku
14 Sep 2024
Formula One - Official Site
After qualifying on the front row in back-to-back races, Oscar Piastri is targeting polesitter Charles Leclerc to claim the race lead in Baku and finish McLaren’s rollercoaster weekend on a high. The papaya team’s drivers found themselves at opposite ends of the grid after qualifying in P2 and P17 respectively for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, as Lando Norris fell victim to yellow flags in Q1 and failed to improve his lap time.
“[I] just tried to really get the most out of it,” Piastri said. “This track really rewards commitment, so on the last laps in Q3 I knew I had a lot less to lose so I just tried to maximise the car. It was feeling good all the way through, just didn’t maximise it much in the first part of qualifying, but very happy with Q3.
Asked whether he was planning to pass Leclerc into Turn 1, he said: “Yeah, definitely try and get into the lead. Clean air is beneficial everywhere so that would make life easier. I’m on the dirty side of the grid so that’s not going to help, but that’s definitely the plan.”
‘Plan to take early race lead’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...HLNd2CO5vrZCtg
Sainz pleased with P3 on a Baku track that ‘doesn’t come naturally’
14 Sep 2024
Formula One - Official Site (Video)
Carlos Sainz admitted Baku is a circuit that he’s “always struggled on”, so the Ferrari man was very satisfied to grab a P3 grid slot for Sunday’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
‘Doesn’t come naturally’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/video/sa...80052482879128
‘Scary for the rest’: Jacques Villeneuve jokes F1 driver’s about to be ‘scary’ after what he heard in Baku
14 Sep 2024
Kyle Archer
F1 Oversteer
Jacques Villeneuve joked one Formula 1 driver is about to become ‘scary’ good after what he heard from them after qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday. Perez qualified in P4 for the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with Verstappen only able to secure P6 with a 0.210-second deficit to his Red Bull teammate and 0.658s to pole. So, Villeneuve is tipping Perez to remain a threat given the team understand why he often struggled for pace.
“I’ve been telling [Red Bull] these issues since probably 10 races ago or maybe even halfway through last year,” Perez told Sky Sports F1 (14/09, 14:38). “It’s a development course we took with the car. With the driving styles, some drivers are more sensitive than the other.”
“Max wasn’t feeling it that much but lately it became so extreme that he ended up having similar issues. The team understands now where those issues are, which is great news for the team. It’s just, the main thing is how quickly we can fix them.” To which, Villeneuve responded: “So, that means you’ll become scary for the rest of the grid now to the end of the season?”
‘Become ‘scary’ good’;
https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/jac...heard-in-baku/
Russell reveals what ‘bodes well for the race’ for Mercedes, after qualifying P5
14 Sep 2024
Formula One - Official Site (Video)
George Russell will start the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from the third row, but reckons Mercedes have an ace in the pack when it comes to their straight line speed.
‘Bodes well for the race’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/video/ru...78590449180856
Max Verstappen takes blame for poor Azerbaijan GP qualifying
The F1 world championship leader will start Sunday’s race in Baku from sixth on the grid
14 Sep 2024
Brandon Sutton
Total Motorsport
“I think some changes that we made going into qualifying, thinking they would improve the car, actually made it worse,” Verstappen told F1 TV at the 2024 Azerbaijan GP. “From the first lap I did in qualifying, I was not happy with the car, and I just tried to drive around it.”
“But when you’re not confident and comfortable with the car on a street circuit, you cannot push to the limit and I think that’s basically what happened. As soon as it matters, people start risking more, but I just didn’t feel comfortable enough to attack.”
“The car was very difficult—jumping a lot, losing contact with the tarmac. So, it wasn’t very nice. Of course, I went off in the last corner, which also didn’t help. All in all, it was quite disappointing.”
‘Max Verstappen takes blame’;
https://www.total-motorsport.com/max...gp-qualifying/
“Same Saturday as always” - Lewis Hamilton makes familiar “tyres didn’t work” complaint
Lewis Hamilton's view on qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix: :Same thing that happens every Saturday."
14 Sep 2024
Connor McDonagh
Crash.Net
It was a familiar story for Lewis Hamilton at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as he struggled for tyre temperature in qualifying. “Yesterday the car was amazing, felt great. Honestly, I think it could have been at least second row today. Came today, the tyres didn’t work all day.” Lewis Hamilton.
“Tyres didn’t work”;
https://www.crash.net/f1/news/105551...work-complaint
Gasly disqualified from qualifying at Azerbaijan Grand Prix over fuel flow breach
14 Sep 2024
Formula One - Official Site
Alpine driver Pierre Gasly has been disqualified from the results of qualifying at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after the stewards determined that his car had breached the fuel flow limit.
"The Technical Delegate reported that Car 10 [Gasly] exceeded the permitted 100Kg/h fuel mass flow on the final timed lap of Q2," read the note from the stewards confirming the Alpine driver's disqualification.
‘Gasly disqualified’;
https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/a...xuLLpmKwmX1xwh
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Oscar Piastri wins Azerbaijan GP epic as Lando Norris rubs salt into Verstappen's wounds.
Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc enjoyed the battle of the season around the streets of Azerbaijan.
Sep 15, 2024
Harry Smith
Daily and Sunday Express
Oscar Piastri held off Charles Leclerc in a sensational spectacle at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Further back, Lando Norris completed a noble comeback, recovering from P15 to P4 to finish ahead of title rival Max Verstappen.
Polesitter Leclerc looked comfortable out front throughout the opening stint, stretching out a lead of nearly five seconds before the first pit stops, but after some strong McLaren teamwork allowed Piastri to defend against a Sergio Perez undercut, the Australian was unleashed.
With his team-mate leading the way, Norris made his pit stop on lap 38, emerging in seventh place with a 15-second deficit to Verstappen ahead. Six laps later, the Dutchman’s advantage had been halved and on lap 49 he made the move stick.
‘Battle of the season’;
https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-a...jan-Grand-Prix
Azerbaijan GP: Race Results
15 Sep 2024
Mat Coch
Speedcafe
Full results from the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku Street Circuit.
Pos Num Driver Team Laps/Diff
1 81 Oscar Piastri McLaren 51
2 16 Charles Leclerc Ferrari 10.91
3 63 George Russell Mercedes 31.328
4 4 Lando Norris McLaren 36.143
5 1 Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing 77.096
6 14 Fernando Alonso Aston Martin 86.526
7 23 Alex Albon Williams 88.05
8 43 Franco Colapinto Williams 89.864
9 44 Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 91.958
10 50 Oliver Bearman Haas 93.212
‘Full results’;
https://speedcafe.com/azerbaijan-gp-race-results/
F1 Azerbaijan GP 2024 – Race Results
15 Sep 2024
John Smith
Total Motorsport
A mesmerising race long battle in Baku was eventually won by Oscar Piastri who took the chequered flag and to take victory ahead of Charles Leclerc in the 2024 Azerbaijan GP results.
In the final few laps with Charles Leclerc, Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz fighting for second place, Sainz jumped Perez into Turn 1 then out of Turn 2, the Ferrari and Red Bull collided meaning the race ended under the Virtual Safety Car.
George Russell benefited from that collision and took the final podium position. Lando Norris, who started in 15th position, brilliantly recovered to take P4, jumping title-rival Max Verstappen in the process.
‘Race Results’;
https://www.total-motorsport.com/f1-...-race-results/
Piastri wins classic Baku race after PHENOMENAL F1 duel with Leclerc
Today at 13:37
Matt Gretton
GPblog.com
Oscar Piastri has won a classic 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix after battling Charles Leclerc during the second half of the race. The two F1 drivers put on an incredible display of skill in the streets of Baku, with the McLaren driver getting the better result. Sergio Perez tried to get involved in the battle for the lead. The Mexican crashed with Carlos Sainz in the dying stages of the race, lifting George Russell to the podium.
Lando Norris did all he could to recover from a poor qualifying session, but there wasn't a safety car to aid his progress. He finished in fourth, one place ahead of his rival Verstappen so the Brit actually cut the gap to Verstappen in the World Championship. There is also good news for the Woking-based team as McLaren took the lead of the Constructors' Championship. For the first time since May 2022, Red Bull do not sit at the top of the standings.
The Grand Prix featured a phenomenal duel between Piastri and Leclerc for the lead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The battle lasted more or less the entire length of the second stint, with a third different constructor (Sergio Perez) also getting in on the action at times. The duel saw a bold overtake from Piastri, various attacking attempts from Leclerc to regain the lead and crafty dummy radio calls with Ferrari teasing an undercut. It was the McLaren driver who won the duel. Leclerc's grip ran out at the end of the race, which put him under pressure from Perez. Perez dropped behind Sainz, and then the two drivers crashed.
‘PHENOMENAL F1 duel’;
https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/30133...x-in-baku.html
Azerbaijan Grand Prix: F1 Race Results: The Azerbaijan Grand Prix saw a last minute crash and a change for the lead in the Constructors' Championship after a stressful battle for the lead
Sep 15, 2024
Abby Bathurst
FormulaNerds
Final laps: With 11 laps left, Leclerc radioed that Piastri was starting to struggle with his tyres. Despite that though, Leclerc still couldn’t retake the lead. Meanwhile, Hamilton fought with Bearman and overtook him for 12th. This put him behind Colapinto. The top four drivers were soon all in contention for the race win with Sainz now only two seconds behind Perez, who was within DRS range of Leclerc, who was within DRS range of Piastri.
However, Leclerc dropped Perez and Sainz and was told by his engineer to “Come on!”. He did, unfortunately, drop back slightly, but Piastri kissed the wall at Turn 15. Sainz then started to close up behind Perez, who had re-entered DRS range behind Leclerc. The Monegasque though had fallen out of DRS range behind Piastri, with the gap 1.242 seconds on lap 47.
With a gap now between Piastri and Leclerc, Perez was putting the pressure on the Leclerc, who said he has no rear tyres. Whilst Perez was putting the pressure on, Norris was putting the pressure on Verstappen as he got within less than a second behind the Red Bull. The final three laps saw Norris overtake his championship rival for P6. Virtual Safety Car: Perez then overtook Leclerc, but Leclerc came back fighting, pushing Perez wide and Sainz came through too. But unfortunately, Sainz and Perez then made contact and both crashed out.
‘Last minute crash and a change for the lead in the Constructors' Championship’;
https://www.formulanerds.com/news/az.../?nowprocket=1
Sainz and Perez in massive crash on penultimate lap of Azerbaijan GP
What a spectacular ending!
15 Sep 2024
Ian Parkes
RacingNews365
Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez were involved in a massive crash on the penultimate lap of an enthralling Azerbaijan Grand Prix. With McLaren's Oscar Piastri managing to stretch his lead out front after being hounded for 30 laps by Charles Leclerc in his Ferrari, the Monégasque then started to lose his rear tyres. That allowed Red Bull's Perez to push for second place, but with Sainz also closing in as he sensed a podium.
At the start of lap 50, Perez went for a move on Leclerc, only for the latter to hug the barrier at Turn 1 and force the Mexican wide. IN turn, Sainz seized his opportunity to make a move on Perez and claim third place. Sainz, though, was slow out and that allowed Perez to pull himself back alongside and attempt to reclaim third between Turns 2 and 3. But as Sainz shifted marginally to his left, Perez ran into the side of the SF-24, with the impact sending both hurtling into a wall on their left-hand side.
Perez, winner of this race twice in the past, was incredulous over the radio, while Sainz simply asked: "What happened? What happened?" The race then finished behind the safety car, with Piastri taking the chequered flag ahead of Leclerc. Mercedes' George Russell was promoted onto the podium, with McLaren's Lando Norris fourth and Max Verstappen in his Red Bull fifth.
‘Massive crash on the penultimate lap’;
https://racingnews365.com/sainz-and-...-azerbaijan-gp
