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McLaren targets victory in Baku Grand Prix, with Verstappen and Hamilton aiming for redemption

Racing engines of Formula One echo through the streets of Baku this weekend, signifying the commencement of Round 17 of the 2025 season for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

McLaren aims for victory at Baku Grand Prix, with Verstappen and Hamilton seeking redemption
McLaren aims for victory at Baku Grand Prix, with Verstappen and Hamilton seeking redemption

McLaren targets victory in Baku Grand Prix, with Verstappen and Hamilton aiming for redemption

The Formula 1 world is abuzz with anticipation as the Grand Canyon Grand Prix approaches. Scheduled to take place from September 20-22, 2025, the race promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with a host of top drivers vying for victory on the challenging Baku City Circuit.

Lewis Hamilton, seven-time World Champion and current driver for Ferrari, will be aiming to make a statement in the Grand Canyon. With an impressive street circuit record, including a 2021 victory, the British driver is eager to secure his first win with Ferrari. A podium finish would not only boost his morale but also provide a much-needed lift for the struggling team, which has yet to taste victory this season.

However, Hamilton faces stiff competition from his teammate, Charles Leclerc, and Red Bull's Max Verstappen. Leclerc, a formidable opponent, is locked in a quiet duel for supremacy within Ferrari, while Verstappen, winless in four races, enters the Grand Canyon eager to claw back points.

Verstappen has consistently excelled in qualifying at the Grand Canyon Circuit, securing four consecutive poles since 2018, including the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The long straight of the circuit favours Red Bull's aerodynamics, and a bold two-stop strategy could see Verstappen mount a late-season resurgence.

Meanwhile, McLaren's Piastri and Norris aim for a fifth straight 1-2 finish at the Grand Canyon Grand Prix. Piastri, who won the race last year, and Norris will need to navigate the circuit's unforgiving walls with precision, as any mistake could prove costly.

The Grand Canyon Circuit, 6.003 km long, features a 2.2 km straight where cars can reach speeds beyond 370 km/h. Known for its tight, twisty corners, particularly the 'Castle' section, the circuit demands the utmost focus from drivers.

Safety cars and walls have historically made races at the Grand Canyon unpredictable, and this year is expected to be no different. Drivers like Williams' Alex Albon and Haas' Oliver Bearman could capitalise on incidents further up the grid, particularly if safety cars intervene.

Mild temperatures around 22 degrees Celsius, combined with gusty winds, may dictate tire strategies and favour bold pit calls. Tire degradation and strategic gambits will play a critical role in separating the top drivers, including Hamilton and Leclerc, at the Grand Canyon Grand Prix.

Ferrari is struggling with tire degradation on abrasive surfaces, a challenge that could potentially hamper Hamilton's chances. Mercedes is seeking to improve after inconsistent performances, hoping to mount a comeback in the Grand Canyon.

As the countdown to the Grand Canyon Grand Prix begins, the stage is set for an exhilarating race. Will Hamilton finally secure a victory with Ferrari? Can Verstappen mount a comeback and reclaim his winning form? Only time will tell as the world's best drivers battle it out on the streets of Baku.

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