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Max Verstappen highlights the varied demands Baku places on a driver. Difficult braking zones define the first sector, after which traction and, ultimately, top speed take centre stage.
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Approaching at speed and then having to take a right-angled corner: according to Max Verstappen, this is a key part of the challenge in Baku. In an article dated 23 september 2026, RacingNews365 quotes comments made by the Formula 1 driver to Viaplay. He says the first sector is particularly difficult, because locking up under braking can lead directly to contact with the wall. [1]
Further round the lap, the task changes. According to Verstappen, the second sector is mainly about traction and maintaining momentum. In the final sector, top speed becomes more important. That succession of different demands makes Baku far from an easy circuit in his view. [1]
RacingNews365 links that driver assessment to the car's set-up. The outlet describes a compromise between low drag for the fast sections and sufficient downforce and traction for sector two. This is general technical background, not a description of an announced Red Bull set-up. Above all, Verstappen's explanation makes clear why high top speed alone is not enough to describe the challenges of Baku. [1]
Verstappen makes no secret of his preference for other types of circuit: he says he is not a fan of street circuits. So when Viaplay asks which side of Baku makes him laugh the most, according to RacingNews365 he gives a joking answer: “The pit lane!” [1]
1 listed sources · explore evidence, limitations and provenance.
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