Overview

• Wind and late rain contributed to a string of accidents that repeatedly halted the session on the narrow Baku street circuit.
• Carlos Sainz qualified second with rookie Liam Lawson third, creating an unexpected order behind the pole-sitter.
• Charles Leclerc and championship leader Oscar Piastri crashed in Q3, compromising their prospects despite advancing to the top 10.
• The session stretched to nearly two hours due to car recoveries, debris clearance, and barrier repairs.
• Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly exited in Q1 and start near the back, while reports differed on whether five or six red flags were shown.