Max in Baku: 'Hopefully we can fight for a podium'

Published on 23 September 2026 by Stefan Meens

With this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix taking place on Saturday, Max Verstappen’s media commitments ahead of the Baku race take place on Wednesday. Among the topics discussed with the Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is the contract extension of teammate Isack Hadjar for 2027.

“I get along well with Isack and it’s great that we can continue to focus on the future together. He was a rookie last year and he has done well this year so it’s only logical to give him an extension. He has earned it.”

After being side-lined for three rounds, Hadjar will be back in the cockpit with the challenging Baku street circuit awaiting the drivers. Max: “It’s challenging and can be hectic. It’s not easy to get into the right window and flow, especially with the tyres. That’s the real challenge, to find the confidence to be on the limit in every braking zone.”

This weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix marks the eleventh edition since the event appeared on the F1 calendar in 2016. “In 2017, Daniel and I drove through the city in old cars and saw some more of the country. We had some great dinners together and good memories. I can also appreciate that it’s a bit less busy than other races. It’s a great place to win also.”

Regarding Red Bull's chances, Max remains realistic. “It’s difficult to say how competitive we will be, but hopefully we can fight for the podium again after some good races. I really wan to win at least one race this year, but so far, we’ve not really had a chance to do so.”

The Dutchman adds: “In terms of race pace, I think we’ve been the fourth fastest team, so I think we’ve maximised our results. The car feels a lot better, but still lacks pace, but we’ll keep working.”