2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Key Highlights and Championship Standings

The 2024 Formula One season continues to heat up as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix takes place on the streets of Baku, serving as the 17th round of the championship. As the competition draws closer, there are only eight races left to determine the season champion. Fans are eagerly anticipating whether McLaren or Red Bull will take the lead in Baku, amidst a closely fought contest at the top of the standings.

Max Verstappen currently tops the drivers’ standings with a 62-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris. Verstappen, however, has faced a challenging period recently, failing to secure a win in the past six races. This has allowed McLaren to close in, trailing Red Bull by just eight points in the constructors’ standings.

In a surprising turn of events, Charles Leclerc of Ferrari will start the race from pole position. This presents an excellent opportunity for him to score significant points, especially as his rivals face setbacks. Verstappen, the championship leader, will start in sixth place, while Lando Norris, following a disappointing qualifying session, is set to commence from a distant P16.

Additional excitement surrounds the grid as Pierre Gasly was disqualified from the qualifying session, forcing him to start from P20. Meanwhile, seasoned drivers Lewis Hamilton and Esteban Ocon are set for pit lane starts due to penalties.

UK audiences can catch the race highlights for free today on Channel 4 at 4:30 PM, with expert commentary provided by Steve Jones, Mark Webber, and Ariana Bravo. For Formula One enthusiasts unable to watch every race live, GPFans remains a top resource for free access to race highlights, qualifying sessions, and complete coverage of the F1 calendar.