Max Verstappen avoided the barriers during Azerbaijan GP FP3 but complained that his Red Bull was bouncing heavily over Baku’s uneven surface
News Summary
- Max Verstappen ran off the circuit during Azerbaijan GP FP3
- The Dutchman avoided the barriers and returned to the track
- Verstappen complained that his Red Bull was “jumping like a kangaroo”
Max Verstappen endured a difficult moment during Azerbaijan GP FP3 after running off the circuit while struggling with the behaviour of his Red Bull on Friday.
The Dutchman managed to slow the car inside the escape area, avoided the barriers and returned to the circuit without visible damage. His radio message, however, revealed his frustration with the RB22.
“I’m jumping like a kangaroo,” Verstappen complained, criticising the car’s behaviour over Baku’s bumps.
The incident came as drivers attempted to build confidence before qualifying on a circuit where braking references can change substantially because of the wind, track temperature and slipstream.
Baku also completed emergency resurfacing work at Turn 7 overnight after the asphalt deteriorated during Thursday’s high temperatures.
Red Bull faces final adjustments before Baku qualifying
Verstappen had finished second in FP1 before dropping to third in FP2, 0.827s behind George Russell’s benchmark.
Although the Red Bull appeared competitive over a single lap, the four-time world champion’s complaint suggested that the car remained difficult to control over Baku’s uneven sections. Excessive bouncing can compromise braking stability and prevent a driver from attacking the kerbs confidently.
The problem is particularly costly in Baku because several slow corners lead directly onto acceleration zones. A poor exit can therefore leave a driver vulnerable along the circuit’s long straights.
Mercedes led both Thursday practice sessions, but FP3 offered Red Bull its final opportunity to refine Verstappen’s setup before parc fermé.
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F1 today: FAQ
What time does the 2026 Azerbaijan GP start?
The race starts on Saturday, September 26, at 12:00 UK time. It begins at 07:00 ET and 04:00 PT in the US, 16:30 in India and 21:00 AEST in eastern Australia.
Who starts on pole for the Azerbaijan GP?
George Russell starts from pole for Mercedes, ahead of Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri. Isack Hadjar qualified fourth, followed by Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton.
Why is the Azerbaijan GP being held on Saturday?
The race was moved to Saturday because Sunday, September 27, is Azerbaijan’s Remembrance Day, a national day of mourning. The entire F1 weekend was brought forward by one day.
