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
End Of Year Reports 2025Red Bull’s best and worst moments from 2025
End Of Year Reports 2025Aston Martin’s best and worst moments from 2025
QuizTHE BIG QUIZ OF 2025: 20 questions on the 2025 Formula 1 season
Hinchcliffe'History shows Piastri will be even better in 2026'
Every twist and turn from a dramatic 2025 title battle
End Of Year Reports 2025Ferrari’s best and worst moments from 2025
