The Formula 1 Tuesday brought a significant confirmation before the Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Isack Hadjar is officially back with Red Bull. The French driver was cleared to return after recovering from the wrist fracture that sidelined him from the Dutch, Italian, and Spanish GPs, during which Liam Lawson took his place. Hadjar returns to the RB22 as early as this Thursday in Baku.
McLaren also arrives in Azerbaijan with important updates. The MCL40 will receive the largest update package of the second half of the season, featuring a new floor, revised aerodynamic components, and a new version of the so-called “Macarena wing.” The team aims to improve especially its behavior in slow-speed corners without compromising the efficiency demanded by Baku’s long straight.
Lewis Hamilton, for his part, adopted a more pessimistic tone about Ferrari’s chances in 2026. After a brake issue caused his retirement at the Spanish Grand Prix, the Briton found himself 101 points behind Kimi Antonelli and said that the “light at the end of the tunnel” is growing dimmer. Still, he highlighted the team’s effort to keep bringing updates forward.
At Mercedes, Toto Wolff tried to curb the enthusiasm following the recent good results. The team arrives in Baku after two consecutive victories by Antonelli, but the boss stated that this does not guarantee anything for the upcoming weekend and reminded that other teams also have the ability to fight at the front.
Max Verstappen also arrives in Azerbaijan under pressure. The four-time champion has yet to win in 2026 after 14 rounds, although he dominated the race in Baku last year. Currently sixth in the standings, the Dutchman is trying to replicate his strong history at a circuit where only he and Sergio Pérez have won more than once.
Another technical point to watch for during the weekend is the long straight at Baku, which could cause tire cooldowns before braking for turn 1, increasing the risk of lockups. The feature adds yet another variable to a circuit that already demands a balance between low aerodynamic drag, grip, and braking stability.
