Haas Targets Points at Azerbaijan Grand Prix
The Haas F1 Team press office recalled that the squad’s debut season in Formula 1 coincided with the inaugural race in Baku in 2016, which at the time was held under the name of the European Grand Prix.
Both of the team’s current drivers have previously finished in the points on the streets of the Azerbaijani capital: Esteban Ocon achieved sixth place in 2017,while Oliver Bearman, substituting for Kevin Magnussen last season, secured tenth position.
According to Team Principal Ayao Komatsu, the Baku circuit presents significant challenges for both engineers and drivers: tight, slow corners are combined with long straights, and with the use of the three softest tyre compounds, effective tyre management will be critical. In Monza, Haas narrowly missed out on points, and the team is now determined to make amends.
Bearman expressed his delight at returning to the familiar Baku City Circuit, where he had previously celebrated victories in junior categories. He noted that while the layout is demanding and requires precision, completing a clean lap brings great satisfaction.
Ocon emphasized that racing in Baku is always unpredictable: the proximity of the walls and the nature of the street circuit demand maximum concentration. He added that the race often descends into chaos, and it is vital to seize any opportunity that may arise in order to score valuable points.
