5 storylines we're excited about ahead of the Azerbaijan GP

As the 2026 F1 season approaches Round 15 in Azerbaijan, Kimi Antonelli leads the championship as the series enters a demanding period of triple headers. Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar remains a doubt for Baku following a wrist injury, with Liam Lawson standing by to continue his replacement duties if needed. Williams arrives in Baku with a significant upgrade package, aiming to improve their disappointing ninth-place standing in the constructors' championship. Meanwhile, championship leaders Mercedes confirmed they will hold off on major upgrades until Malaysia, relying on their strong initial car design to defend against rivals like McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull. Elsewhere, the driver market remains quiet, with Haas yet to confirm their 2027 line-up and Fernando Alonso’s future at Aston Martin still pending an official announcement. Notably, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix schedule has shifted forward by 24 hours, with the race taking place on Saturday to avoid a clash with the country’s Remembrance Day.