Overview

• Carlos Sainz finished third behind Max Verstappen and George Russell after starting P2 and resisting a late charge from Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli over 51 laps.
• The result gave Williams its first podium at Baku since 2017 and marked Sainz’s maiden podium with the team.
• Team principal James Vowles recorded his first podium as a team boss, praising Sainz’s “exceptional” drive.
• The finish nearly doubled Sainz’s season total to 31 points and helped Williams surpass 100 constructors’ points to solidify fifth place.
• Peers took notice, with Charles Leclerc congratulating Sainz, and Newsweek reporting Toto Wolff left Vowles a cheeky congratulatory note.