Formula One extends deal to race in Azerbaijan

Formula One has announced that it will race in Baku for a further three-years. The new deal will see the Azerbaijan Grand Prix remain on the F1 calendar till 2026. 

The Baku race was first held in 2016, under the “European Grand Prix” moniker, before it became the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2017 as it is known today. Designed by renowned F1 circuit designer Hermann Tilke, the Baku City Circuit is one of the fastest circuits on the F1 calendar. 

The race in Baku, till date, has never had a repeat winner, with the likes of Nico Rosberg, Daniel Ricciardo, Lewis Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas, Sergio Pérez and Max Verstappen having won at the circuit.

The 2023 Baku race is set to host the first Sprint event of the year and will also see the new Sprint format introduced, with the Sprint Shootout joining the race weekend. 

Also read: Sergio Pérez takes fortunate Azerbaijan Grand Prix win

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula One, said:

“The Baku City Circuit has become a hugely popular venue for Formula 1. 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.“

Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, stated:

“We are thrilled to confirm our continued partnership with Formula 1. Ever since we first hosted this event in 2016, the economic, social, and cultural impact of the sport on our city and country has been remarkable.

“The FORMULA 1 AZERBAIJAN GRAND PRIX is a source of great pride for the whole country and will now continue to inspire and excite our fans for a further three years. The past six races have been some of the best and most dramatic in the sport’s long history and we look forward to creating more magical moments for F1 fans at home and abroad over the next three years – starting with this weekend. Moreover, today’s agreement has come during a weekend that sees us hosting a record number of fans from over 100 countries, which only serves to make this moment even more special.“