Sat Sep 20 12:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

The F1 qualifying session in Baku was chaotic and eventful, featuring multiple red flags due to crashes and incidents. Alex Albon, Nico Hulkenberg, Pierre Gasly, and Franco Colapinto were eliminated in Q1 due to accidents. Lando Norris showed strong pace for McLaren, while Ferrari also demonstrated competitiveness, particularly with Charles Leclerc. The session was further complicated by strong winds and debris on the track. McLaren seems to be the dominant force, having a strong weekend, building on their success from last year’s Baku race where they started to rise as a leading team. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is confirmed to remain on the F1 calendar until 2030. The driver standings show Piastri leading Norris, followed by Verstappen and Russell.

**News Article:**

**Chaos and Crashes Mark Baku Qualifying; McLaren Dominates Early Sessions**

**Baku, Azerbaijan** – A drama-filled qualifying session in Baku saw multiple red flags and several drivers eliminated early as teams battled the challenging street circuit and unpredictable conditions.

The Q1 session was marred by crashes from Alex Albon, Nico Hulkenberg, Pierre Gasly, and Franco Colapinto, bringing the session to a halt on multiple occasions. The tight and unforgiving nature of the Baku circuit took its toll, with drivers struggling for grip and control.

Lando Norris of McLaren set a blistering pace, topping the charts in final practice and carrying that momentum into qualifying. Ferrari also showed promising speed, with Charles Leclerc looking strong despite a minor brush with the wall.

“It’s been a hectic start to the weekend,” said a member of the Red Bull team. “This is an unpredictable track, and anything can happen.”

McLaren appears to be the team to beat this weekend, with Oscar Piastri also running competitively. Last year’s Baku race was a turning point for the team, and they look poised to continue their success.

Off-track, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix secured its place on the Formula 1 calendar until 2030 with a four-year contract extension. The renewal ensures that the event will continue to bring its unique brand of racing to the sport, despite concerns about human rights issues.

Qualifying continues later to determine the starting grid for Sunday’s race. With the unpredictable nature of the Baku circuit, the race promises to be an exciting one.

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