F1 Fantasy Strategist’s Picks: Baku, Azerbaijan – Where Speed Meets the Wall
Baku welcomes F1 with a venue where patience and timing collide, presenting both opportunity and risk. Our strategist breaks down the top assets to help you thrive in F1 Fantasy this weekend.
Context: A Quick Recap
The Baku City Circuit is a fan favorite, boasting the longest straight in Formula 1 and a unique blend of high-speed corners and tight walls. Overtaking is plentiful, and safety cars play a significant role. Our F1 Fantasy Strategist helps you navigate this unpredictable challenge.
Strategist’s picks: Drivers
Lando Norris
- High ceiling with six fastest laps this season (10 points each).
- Got P4 from P15 in 2024 and scored 38 points, fastest lap.
- Risky but rewards well in F1 Fantasy.
Alex Albon
- Scoring five straight double-digit F1 Fantasy scores, four P7s in the last five races.
- Leads all drivers in points finishes this season (11) for Williams.
- Great value for money, strong consistency.
Oliver Bearman
- Leads all drivers in overtakes per race (4.4) and positions gained per race (3.8).
- Strong debut in Baku 2024 (P10).
- Underrated in fantasy games but shines in real racing.
Isack Hadjar
- Competing with a cheaper price point, solid performance since Hungary (16.3 fantasy points average).
- Highest points-to-value ratio among drivers (3.09 points per $1m spent).
- Great budget filler or upgrade enabler.
Pierre Gasly
- Unreliable 2025, but strong in Baku previously (P3 and P5).
- Hit $4.5m floor, safe for this track’s reputation.
- Four double-digit F1 Fantasy scores this season.
Strategist’s picks: Constructors
McLaren
- Unstoppable in F1 Fantasy with five 90+ point scores in the last six races.
- Excelling in pit stops, averaging 25 points in the last three races.
- Punishing in Baku previously (P1, P2, P1 in last three visits).
Red Bull
- Turned a corner in Monza, scoring 71 points (team’s second highest this season).
- Leads all teams in fast pit stop points (12.4 average in the last five races).
- Verstappen: Three podiums in last three Baku races, Red Bull won three of the last four.
FAQ Section
Should I prioritize expensive drivers or teams in Baku?
Balance is key. Expensive assets have proved their worth but cheaper options offer value. Consider mid-tier picks and double down on essential, lower-cost assets.
How important are Safety Cars in Baku for F1 Fantasy?
Very important. Azerbaijan has had the most Safety Cars of any track since 2019. They shuffle the pack and create high-scoring opportunities. Keep this in mind when making your team selections.
Pro Tip!
Created your F1 Fantasy team yet? Join the free-to-play game on Formula 1’s official Fantasy site, compete for real prizes every race week, and enter the Street Showdown minileague for additional rewards!
📢 Don’t forget to lock in your teams by 1600 local time (1200 UTC) on Saturday, September 21, just before Qualifying starts!
Join the Street Showdown for a chance to win a replica race suit and other exciting prizes!
Contextual image: The circuit map of the Baku City Circuit, showcasing the unique blend of high-speed and low-speed sections that make Azerbaijan’s track a thrilling challenge for drivers and strategists alike.