Formula 1® has confirmed that the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will stay on the racing schedule through 2030, securing its place for four more years. This ongoing commitment highlights the event’s value and the continued enthusiasm surrounding the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The Unique Challenges of Baku City Circuit
Set along the Caspian Sea’s coastline, the six-kilometre Baku City Circuit offers a distinct combination of demanding tight corners and expansive straight sections. The track winds through the historic Icheri Sheher old town, with the castle section featuring one of the narrowest turns in the Formula 1 calendar, rigorously testing drivers’ focus and precision at every lap.
From Debut to Established Fixture on the Calendar
The circuit first appeared in the Formula 1 calendar in 2016 as the European Grand Prix before being renamed the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2017. The 2024 race weekend attracted fans from over 70 countries and drew a global television audience exceeding 66 million, reflecting its growing international appeal and popularity.
Competitive and Diverse Race History
With seven different race winners over eight events, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has become one of the most unpredictable and fiercely contested races on the Formula 1 calendar. Mexican driver Sergio Pérez stands out as the only competitor to have won the event twice. Meanwhile, three other current drivers—Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri—have each taken the victory once, with Piastri securing last year’s win after a dramatic duel with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.
Statements from Leadership Reflect Optimism and Partnership
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, praised the city’s vibrant atmosphere and the strong bond between the organizers and Azerbaijan. He pointed out the circuit’s distinctive layout, which combines historic and scenic elements with technical racing challenges, providing fans and drivers alike with an engaging spectacle every year. Domenicali expressed gratitude toward President Ilham Aliyev, Minister Farid Gayibov, Anar Alakbarov, the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation, and the Baku City Circuit team for their dedication and ongoing support.
“There’s an incredible energy to the city of Baku and since our first Grand Prix here in 2016 Formula 1 has consistently received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from the people of Azerbaijan. The circuit is unique, with technical sections and long straights that run through the stunning shoreline and historic old town, delivering an eventful and entertaining race every year. This renewal reflects the strong trust and commitment between Formula 1, the Azerbaijani Government, and the promoter, and paves the way for an exciting future in the country. I would like to thank President Ilham Aliyev and Minister Gayibov for their continued investment and commitment to evolving the event; Anar Alakbarov and the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation for championing Formula 1 in the country; and the team at Baku City Circuit for their year-round efforts in delivering an exceptional experience for our fans, drivers, and teams.”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1
Dr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, emphasized that the agreement extension underlines Azerbaijan’s ambition to remain a leading destination for major international sporting events, inspiring future generations. He noted the race’s growing significance, praising the global appeal created by thrilling motorsport action alongside the capital city’s hospitality and beauty.
The extension of our partnership with Formula 1 reflects the vision and direction of Azerbaijan’s leadership, ensuring that our country continues to stand as a global hub for major sporting events while leaving a lasting legacy of inspiration for future generations through the power of sport. Over the years, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has grown into one of the most anticipated races on the F1 calendar, showcasing not only thrilling on-track action but also the beauty, energy, and hospitality of our capital. This extension reaffirms our commitment to hosting world-class events and further strengthens Azerbaijan’s position on the international stage. Together, we will continue to present Baku as a vibrant, world-class sporting destination, welcoming fans from across the globe to experience both the excitement of Formula 1 and the unique spirit of our city and country.
Dr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan
What the Future Holds for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix
The confirmed extension of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix until 2030 secures the race’s role as one of the standout events on the Formula 1 calendar. This decision assures continued opportunities for drivers such as Oscar Piastri, Max Verstappen, and Lewis Hamilton to showcase their skills on this challenging street circuit. For fans worldwide, the extension guarantees more memorable races filled with thrilling competition on a distinctive track set against the backdrop of Baku’s historic and modern landmarks. The ongoing collaboration between Formula 1, local organizers, and Azerbaijan’s government reinforces the country’s position as a global sporting hub and will likely pave the way for further growth in motorsport enthusiasm and tourism in the region.
