Overview

• The Red Bull driver took pole in a chaotic Baku qualifying with multiple red flags and converted it into his second straight victory after Monza.
• Reports indicate he has gained about 35 points over the past two races but still trails Piastri by roughly 69 with seven rounds remaining.
• Red Bull’s form has improved following mid-season leadership changes and upgrades that coincided with Verstappen’s Monza and Baku successes.
• Helmut Marko says Red Bull has approved Verstappen’s plan to enter the Nürburgring 24 Hours in May 2026, with the driver progressing through the Nordschleife permit, including a 240‑PS Porsche test.
• A human moment capped the Baku win as Verstappen’s grandmother attended the podium ceremony, which he noted was special in remarks to Viaplay.