BAKU, July 18, 2025 — With just two months left until one of the year’s most anticipated sporting events, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Baku is in full throttle preparing for its return to the Formula 1 calendar. Organizers report that 80% of the trackside construction and setup is already complete, signaling a smooth lead-up to the September 19–21 race weekend.
To provide a behind-the-scenes look at the progress, Baku City Circuit (BCC) held a media tour this week, starting from the paddock area. Subkhan Manafzade, Construction Manager at BCC Operations, detailed key upgrades, timeline optimizations, and new features debuting this year.
“Construction began on March 16 and is progressing rapidly across pit lane zones and team facilities. We expect the major construction phase to be wrapped up by early August,” Manafzade said.
Faster, Smarter, Local
Notably, the construction timeline has shrunk from 12 to just 6 weeks, dramatically reducing disruption for local residents and traffic. Over 2,100 workers are currently involved in the buildout, and the number will surge to 5,000 during race week, including 2,000 volunteers and 1,400 marshals, almost all locally recruited.
“In the past 10 years, we’ve fully transitioned to using local Azerbaijani contractors — no foreign firms are involved anymore,” Manafzade emphasized.
Track & Safety Upgrades
Safety remains a top priority. The BCC team is replacing 60% of the 3,000 concrete barriers with newer models, which will not only enhance protection but also accelerate installation.
The paddock area is also seeing expansion, with two new buildings:
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A Race Control tower,
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And a Formula 1 Champions Club lounge opposite the Hilton Hotel.
To accommodate growing demand, grandstand capacity is increasing from 18,000 to 20,000, thanks to two new structures and expanded seating in existing zones.
Citywide Adjustments and Minimal Disruption
In line with Baku’s effort to reduce disruption, most work is being done overnight. Since 2023, the city has pioneered a policy of keeping major roads partially open even during race week. In 2024, this was expanded to five transport corridors, and 2025 is expected to see a further 30% increase in usage by local drivers.
“Our goal is always to deliver a world-class event without disrupting city life,” Manafzade noted.
Fan Experience and Demand
Last year, five grandstands sold out before race week. The additional seating is expected to meet soaring demand — especially for views of the final corners, where cars reach peak speed in one of the most thrilling sections of the urban circuit.
The 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix will take place from September 19 to 21, promising three days of roaring engines, wheel-to-wheel action, and vibrant street-race energy — solidifying Baku’s status as one of the crown jewels of the F1 calendar.
