Formula 1: Russell holds off Verstappen to take victory in chaotic Azerbaijan GP

In a chaotic Azerbaijan Grand Prix, George Russell edged out Max Verstappen to claim his third victory of the season. The Mercedes driver capitalized on a strong start, leaving Oscar Piastri to defend against the Red Bull drivers, Verstappen and Isack Hadjar. However, Russell managed to extend his lead even further. A late challenge from Verstappen put immense pressure on Russell in the final laps, but the British driver managed to cross the line one-tenth ahead, denying the Dutchman what could have been his first win of the season.

The race saw six drivers retire, including McLaren's Lando Norris, who left the field early. Isack Hadjar secured a double podium finish for Red Bull, while Charles Leclerc and Kimi Antolinelli took P4 and P5, respectively. Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton finished sixth, while Esteban Ocon was placed seventh. Haas celebrated scoring their first points since Monaco, with Arvid Lindblad and Esteban Ocon.

Nico Hulkenberg placed P11, while Liam Lawson and Gabriel Bortoleto rounded out the top 15. Oscar Piastri, who ran in the podium positions for most of the race, finished P14 due to a lock-up. The race concluded with Valtteri Bottas driving into the barriers and becoming the final driver to withdraw. The final retirements came from Alex Albon, Franco Colapinto, Pierre Gasly, and Sergio Perez, along with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll due to mechanical issues.