Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Formula 1
The Formula 1 circus has arrived in Baku for the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and the stakes have never been higher. At the 17th race of the season, McLaren could make history by securing the Constructors' World Championship. With a 337-point lead over Ferrari, they need to score just nine more points than their rivals to clinch the title.
Who will win the Azerbaijan Grand Prix?
Expert opinions are divided, but more and more are tipping the young McLaren stars. F1 expert Ben Evans believes Oscar Piastri is the favorite, especially after Lando Norris out-qualified him in Monza. Piastri won on the streets of Baku last year and needs a victory to fuel his title fight.
However, Verstappen fans should prepare for challenges. Analyst Ashley Hambly suggests Max Verstappen could be the biggest disappointment of the race, as the narrow, twisty sections of the track may not suit the Red Bull car. Furthermore, Verstappen has a mixed history with Baku, with only one win in seven attempts.
Meanwhile, David Comerford argues it won't be an easy weekend for Lewis Hamilton either. Hamilton has only won on this track once, while Charles Leclerc is a true "Baku specialist." The Ferrari driver has secured four consecutive pole positions here, even when he didn't have a dominant car, which shows the track suits him.
Track, Stats, and Fun Facts
The 6 km long Baku circuit consists of 51 laps and features the longest straight of the season (2.2 km), where cars can exceed 350 km/h.
The narrowest section of the track, around the old city wall, is just 7.8 meters wide, requiring extreme concentration from the drivers.
Last year's race was won by Oscar Piastri, while the lap record is still held by Charles Leclerc (2019).
Races are often chaotic, and safety car periods can happen at any time, completely changing the standings.
The weekend is full of excitement and questions. Will McLaren secure the Constructors' title? Can Charles Leclerc convert his pole position into a victory? Will Verstappen overcome the Baku "curse"?
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Race Predictions:
Profitable Bet: Oscar Piastri, who based on his recent performance, remains one of the main contenders.
Riskier Bet: Verstappen, who could be a disappointment due to the track's challenges, especially if the narrow sections make it difficult for him to catch up to the leaders.
Bonus Fact: Charles Leclerc is in great form at the Baku track, but he hasn't always been able to win after securing pole position, so there's a chance for victory, although the odds are higher.
My favorite prediction:
Max Verstappen, but Piastri or Norris are also realistic possibilities in a close and exciting race. It's highly likely that a McLaren will win this weekend, but Verstappen will also be in the mix.
Important Notice
All data and information in this article were available at the time of writing. We do not assume responsibility for any subsequent changes (e.g., injuries, suspensions, schedule changes, etc.). The tips provided herein are suggestions and predictions only and are not a guarantee or a binding guide. Sports betting involves risk, and the final decision and use of these tips are always the reader's own responsibility. Please note: we cannot take any responsibility for the published tips.
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