BAKU, July 23 – The roar of engines is drawing closer: only two months remain until the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, set to take place in Baku from September 19 to 21, under the sponsorship of Qatar Airways.
Since its debut in 2016, the Baku City Circuit has delivered some of Formula 1’s most unforgettable drama, blending high-speed action with the vibrant spirit of Azerbaijan’s capital. What began as the European Grand Prix has evolved into one of the most anticipated races on the F1 calendar.
Baku’s street race is famed for its unpredictability and chaos. Who could forget the infamous 2017 clash between Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel and Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, the heartbreaking tire blowout that cost Valtteri Bottas the win in 2018, or Max Verstappen’s crash and Hamilton’s rare mistake in 2021? These moments have helped cement the Azerbaijan GP’s reputation as a pivotal battleground in the championship fight.
The 2023 edition introduced a revamped weekend format, including a separate sprint race and qualifying session, turning the Baku GP into a strategic wildcard of the season. That year, Red Bull’s Sergio Pérez claimed his second victory in the Azerbaijani capital, reinforcing his reputation as a Baku specialist, 1news.az informs.
But the Grand Prix is more than just a race—it’s a citywide celebration. Over the years, Baku has hosted global superstars like Chris Brown, Enrique Iglesias, The Black Eyed Peas, Dua Lipa, Jamiroquai, and Cardi B, transforming race weekend into a festival of sport, music, and culture.
This year promises even more. With the circuit slicing through Baku’s historic Old City (Icherisheher), Azadliq Square, and the scenic seaside boulevard, fans can expect edge-of-the-seat racing amid breathtaking backdrops. Fan zones, live entertainment, and interactive activities will once again energize the city.
The countdown is officially underway. As the world’s fastest drivers and most elite teams prepare to descend on the Caspian coast, all eyes are on Baku, ready to reclaim its title as the high-octane capital of Formula 1 this fall.
