F1 returns on the 10 June 2022, for Free Practise One and Two in Baku. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix will take place on the 12 June, at 12:00PM. Last year’s winner, Sergio Pérez, is also the most recent winner of the 2022 season, having won Monaco two weeks prior. Can he not only keep his streak going in the 2022 season, but also his Baku title? Or will Ferrari catch him up? Let’s see what we can expect from Baku.
Ferrari Redemption?
After their strategy-based slip-ups in Monaco, all eyes will be on Ferrari, Leclerc, and Sainz as they hope to bounce back in Baku. Leclerc’s disappointment in Ferrari two weeks ago was made very public. Team Principal Mattia Binotto also voiced his disappointment in the team. The team cannot afford any more mistakes if they want to be in the fight for the championship. Will Baku be their redemption race? Leclerc qualified on Pole here last year, with Sainz in 5th. Leclerc is yet to qualify out of the front row in 2022. The odds are stacking up in the driver’s favour, but it seems to be the strategy that lets them down.
The Bulls in Baku
Redbull’s strategy so far this season has seemingly prioritised their current World Champion, Max Verstappen. However, his teammate, Sergio Pérez, has proven he shouldn’t be discounted. Pérez is the most recent winner this season, having taken first place in Monaco. He also won at Baku in 2021. It will be a fierce fight between the Bulls and Ferrari, but only time will tell on who will come out on top.
Like Monaco, Baku is a street circuit. This will provide some tight racing for drivers, and a lot of entertainment for viewers. After the drama that took place at Monaco, the drivers are likely to want a much smoother experience in Baku. But will that happen? It’s all depending on the weather, tyre choices and qualifying. Qualifying takes place on Saturday 11 June at 15:00PM, followed by the Grand Prix on 12 June, at 12:00PM.
