The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is set to be part of the Formula 1 calendar through the 2026 season, after signing a new three-year agreement. The first Grand Prix hosted at Baku took place in 2016, as the European Grand Prix. Then in 2017, the inaugural Azerbaijan Grand Prix was held which saw one of the biggest upsets in F1 history.
Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo took first place while sharing the podium with Valtteri Bottas and the Williams of Lance Stroll. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix was created by legendary F1 circuit designer Hermann Tilke. With 20 corners and a massive straight spreading over 6 km, the Baku City Circuit is one of the fastest on the calendar.
In 2023, Azerbaijan will be hosting its first F1 Sprint race which is also the first under the new format. This year, tracks hosting a sprint race will see the whole of Saturday dedicated to Sprint events comprising ‘Shootout’ qualifying and a 100km race.
Addressing this President and CEO of Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali spoke about how this venue has emerged as one of the most popular all over the world. He further expressed that the F1 is delighted to take this decision.
“The Baku City Circuit has become a hugely popular venue for Formula 1,” said Domenicali. “It is an incredible circuit which always delivers huge drama, and has played host to some of the most exciting races in recent memory.“We are delighted to extend our relationship with the country of Azerbaijan and look forward to continuing our growth together.”
