MONDAY MORNING DEBRIEF: Why Sainz wasn’t able to hold off Russell for P2 in Baku
Carlos Sainz netted Williams’ first podium since 2021 at the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix with P3. But what stopped him holding off Mercedes’ George Russell for P2?


Max Verstappen’s start-to-finish domination of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix rendered everyone else bit players – and the lack of incident once Oscar Piastri had brought out the Safety Car by crashing on the opening lap meant there was nothing which threatened to spoil Verstappen’s perfect day.
The main point of interest became whether Carlos Sainz could hold onto the second place he’d put himself in by brilliantly qualifying the Williams in that position, but with several faster cars behind him.
Next Up
Related Articles
Verstappen aims to ‘keep momentum going’ after Red Bull gains
Hamilton ‘more focused than ever’ amid 2026 title push
UnlockedCan Ferrari cling onto their early advantage in Hungary?
Sainz on whether he will stay at ‘underperforming’ Williams
Hamilton amongst stars honoured as Hungaroring names corners
Russell wary of Ferrari threat as Mercedes struggle
