Max fifth in hectic third practice in Baku

Published on 14 September 2024 by Florence Cobben

In a hectic practice that was twice interrupted by a red flag, Max Verstappen managed to snag fifth place on the timesheets. George Russell in his Mercedes went fastest, ahead of Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari and both McLarens. 

Earlier in the day the track saw light rain, but the start of the free practice is dry and slightly  cloudy. After a quarter of an hour a red flag makes it’s first appearance, as Esteban Ocon’s Alpine has come to a halt in the middle of track. The circuit is cleared ten minutes later, and the 6km asfalt track immediately becomes  busy. 

Everyone heads out on softs, and after 28 minutes the first laptimes make their appearance on the timesheets. While Max, who after two slow laps, is gearing up for his flying lap, a second red flag interrupts the session. Newcomer Ollie Bearman, driving for Haas, has hit the wall. Substituting for the suspended Kevin Magnussen, the 2025 rookie manages to walk away unscathed, but his car has significant damage.

After another 6 minutes and with just 22 minutes on the clock, everyone bar two stranded cars can return to the track. Everyone opts for the soft tyre. After a couple of flying laps, Oscar Piastri is in first (1:42.749), six-tenths ahead of Sergio Perez. They are followed by Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen (+0.835s).

With just eight minutes to go, it is Leclerc who improves to claim the fastest time (1:42.563). Max is also lapping significantly faster, and with the fastest second sector he claims P3 (1:42.864). Lando Norris, who till now had been battling it out in P17, suddenly shoots to P2 (1:42.737) with just four minutes on the clock. On a track that is becoming faster and faster, it is George Russell who takes over P1 (1:42.514), followed thirteen-thousandths of a second behind by Leclerc. 

As the checkered flag waves, Russell in his Mercedes is first, ahead of the Ferrais and both McLarens. Max follows in P5 (+0.348s).

Contest GP Azerbaijan: win a by Max Verstappen signed Red Bull Racing cap!

Results third free practice Azerbaijan: