Lewis Hamilton will start the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from the pit lane after Mercedes fitted a new engine, exceeding the season's power unit allocation. This penalty comes after Hamilton qualified seventh; his teammate George Russell will start fifth. Hamilton cited tire temperature issues during qualifying as a challenge. Esteban Ocon of Alpine will also start from the pit lane for similar reasons. Lando Norris will start 15th after Pierre Gasly's disqualification and is aiming to reduce Max Verstappen's lead in the championship. The race is expected to be dynamic with extended DRS zones and potential Safety Car interventions.