Formula 1 analyst Peter Windsor has expressed significant enthusiasm regarding Max Verstappen’s performance during the opening day of the 2026 Baku Grand Prix weekend. Windsor’s observations highlight Verstappen’s continued assertive driving style and confidence, drawing parallels to his highly successful 2022 season.
Windsor has consistently lauded Verstappen’s self-assured communication and his ability to dictate terms, a trait he has demonstrated throughout his career. This ‘strong language’ or assertive approach has been a hallmark of Verstappen’s driving, particularly evident during periods of high performance.
The reference to the RB22, Red Bull Racing’s 2022 challenger, evokes a season of unparalleled dominance for Verstappen. In 2022, he secured his second world championship, achieving a record-breaking 15 victories across the 22 Grands Prix.
This remarkable performance translated to a 68.2% win rate for the season, placing it among the highest in Formula 1 history. Verstappen also amassed 454 points, setting a new record for the highest points tally in a single season.
Windsor’s recent comments from the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix further illustrate this, where he praised Verstappen’s adaptability despite frustrations with his car’s handling. An unbroadcast radio exchange from that event was noted by Windsor as a standout moment.
Regarding the 2026 Baku event, Windsor noted that the circuit appeared favourable under the current hybrid power unit regulations, particularly concerning energy management. He found the racing dynamics in Baku to be positive, despite lower top speeds on the long straights due to ‘superclipping’ strategies.
During the Baku opening day, Windsor also commented on other drivers. He suggested that George Russell should be concerned about Kimi Antonelli, who quickly moved to second place in the second free practice session despite hydraulic issues and matched Russell in race simulations.
Verstappen’s consistent ability to extract maximum performance and his unwavering confidence continue to be a focal point of analysis for seasoned observers like Windsor, underscoring his impact on the current 2026 Formula 1 season.
