George Russell secured the fastest time in the opening free practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Baku City Circuit. The Mercedes driver posted a lap of 1:45.387.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen finished second, with Charles Leclerc placing third for Ferrari. Lewis Hamilton, driving the second Ferrari SF-26, recorded the fourth-quickest time, 0.437 seconds adrift of Russell.
Notably, both Ferrari drivers, Leclerc and Hamilton, completed their fastest laps on the medium compound tyres. This contrasts with their primary rivals, who opted for the softer compound, suggesting a potentially stronger underlying pace for the Scuderia.
Former Formula 1 driver Jolyon Palmer has indicated that Ferrari’s encouraging start in Baku may signal progress in addressing Lewis Hamilton’s previous concerns with the SF-26. Hamilton has consistently highlighted specific areas for improvement on the car throughout the current season.
A significant point of contention for Hamilton has been the SF-26’s steering feel, encompassing power steering and hydraulic assistance. Both Hamilton and Leclerc have sought smoother rotation and reduced physical demand from the system. Ferrari has reportedly implemented different hydraulic assistance settings to accommodate individual driver preferences.
Hamilton previously identified tyre management as a critical flaw in Ferrari’s 2026 package, stating the team ‘could do better’ in this area. Other gripes have included inconsistencies in hybrid deployment and an unpredictable brake pedal feel.
The reliability of the SF-26 also came under scrutiny following Hamilton’s retirement from the Madrid Grand Prix. A brake-by-wire failure, traced to a secondary hydraulic component, forced him out of the race, impacting his championship standing.
Speaking in Baku, Hamilton emphasised the importance of confidence in the car, particularly concerning braking and overall balance, given the demanding nature of the street circuit. He acknowledged the progress made with the SF-26 over the course of the season.
The Baku City Circuit’s long straight places a premium on efficient energy deployment, a technical theme central to the weekend’s challenge. Ferrari’s performance on medium tyres in FP1 provides an encouraging foundation for further fine-tuning.
The session experienced several disruptions, including a hydraulic issue that prematurely ended Kimi Antonelli’s running for Mercedes and car problems for McLaren’s Lando Norris.
