Five key aspects to watch at the F1 Azerbaijan GP

Energy management takes center stage again

Lance Stroll, Aston Martin Racing, Franco Colapinto, Alpine

If the 2026 F1 power unit regulations were clearer, discussions leading up to the Azerbaijan GP would be centered on how the new, lighter, and more agile cars might perform around the Baku circuit, which is known for its fast layout. The reduced downforce and narrower tires would certainly enhance the excitement on the track's iconic straight and the challenging braking zone at the end.

However, this weekend, the focus will be on energy management as a critical aspect of driver feedback. 

The long straight in Baku can quickly drain battery reserves, leading to a ramp-down phase where the software gradually reduces electrical input. A straightline mode (SM) zone will help alleviate some of this, but the need to conserve energy for defensive or offensive maneuvers between Turns 2 and 3 will influence how drivers tackle the significant braking point at Turn 1.

Engineers would describe this track as deterministic, as the areas where lap time can be gained through electrical boosts are quite evident.

This situation may also highlight the subtle differences in driving styles that can lead to varying peak speeds among teammates. The final corner poses a challenge, as any speed lost from sliding will need to be regained, impacting the electrical ‘budget’ on the straight.

- Stuart Codling

The last race before Mercedes upgrades

Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

The introduction of car upgrades has been a pivotal aspect of the 2026 season, with the hierarchy frequently shifting based on who has implemented updates and when. This has been a prominent topic at the front of the grid, as championship leader Mercedes has taken a different approach compared to its closest competitors, Ferrari and McLaren.

While Ferrari and McLaren opted for a more aggressive strategy by introducing significant upgrades early on, Mercedes chose to implement minor, race-specific adjustments, with its major upgrade package debuting in Montreal in May. This conservative strategy has allowed Ferrari and McLaren to close the performance gap, as the Silver Arrows dominated the initial six races from pole but only secured four wins in the subsequent eight events.

However, Mercedes could regain its competitive edge when it rolls out its next substantial update in Malaysia from October 2-4. Thus, Baku represents the final opportunity for Mercedes to race with its current setup, which has still performed commendably, with championship leader Kimi Antonelli clinching victories in the last two races.

Given his current form, it would be unwise to bet against the 20-year-old prodigy making it three consecutive wins as he charges toward his first championship title. Antonelli holds an impressive 81-point advantage over teammate George Russell, who effectively conceded his title ambitions in the last race in Madrid.

- Ed Hardy

What’s going on with Piastri?

Oscar Piastri, McLaren

Last year, Baku was seen as a major opportunity for Oscar Piastri to extend his championship lead. He had previously triumphed in Azerbaijan, fending off every attempt from Charles Leclerc to overtake, and by 2025, he had built a 31-point margin over Lando Norris at the top of the standings, with Max Verstappen trailing by another 94 points.

However, Piastri's championship aspirations took a downturn. A crash during Q3 amid rain and strong winds caused the Australian to hit the wall at Turn 3, placing him ninth on the grid. Things deteriorated further: he jumped the start, entered anti-stall, dropped to the back, and subsequently crashed at Turn 6. The usually composed Melburnian succumbed to the pressure, marking a significant shift in the title battle.

Piastri heads back to Azerbaijan without a victory since then, his last being in the 2025 Dutch GP. This season has generally been challenging; the reduced downforce and energy deployment strategies have not suited him well, and McLaren team principal Andrea Stella believes Piastri is losing time due to overthinking his inputs.

Nevertheless, he has demonstrated his capability to excel in Baku, as evidenced by his win in '24, and securing a standout result would be a fitting way to conclude a tough year.

While such turnaround stories may not unfold as neatly as desired, the notion of redemption at the track where things unraveled last year could provide Piastri with that extra motivation to overcome the ghosts of 2025.

- Jake Boxall-Legge

Speculations about Alonso’s future…again

Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing

One of the recurring discussions in recent grand prix events revolves around Fernando Alonso's future. At the last race in Spain, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed that he had spoken with the 45-year-old and assured him of support amid a challenging period for his Aston Martin team.

“Not soon,” Alonso replied when asked during Thursday’s press conference about when he would disclose his plans for 2027. “Because I think it’s nice, no?” The question in Baku is whether the excitement surrounding his future will remain engaging, with speculation that his decisions may already be made, and that he is merely seeking to exert some pressure on the sport. Anticipate more remarks regarding the shortcomings of the 2026 cars from the seasoned Spanish driver, whose contract ends at the season's conclusion.

After referencing his chef and press officer, will the team's community manager be the next to be mentioned?

As for his vehicle, Aston Martin is set to introduce the final component of its upgrade package in Baku, hoping it will help the AMR26 finally meet its weight limit. Honda, which has no further upgrades planned, believes there is still potential to extract more performance from its existing package, and it will be crucial for the engine supplier to assist in securing a points-scoring race.

- Jose Carlos de Celis