29/04/2023
NEWS STORY
F1 will continue to race on the streets of Baku until 2026, as organisers sign a new contract.
The news comes in the wake of the circuit hosting the first ever Sprint Shootout, the new qualifying format which decides the grid for the subsequent Sprint.
Part of the F1 schedule since 2016, Baku is unique in that no driver has won on the streets of Baku more than once.
Nico Rosberg won the inaugural event - then the European Grand Prix - in 2016, followed by victories for Daniel Ricciardo, Lewis Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas, Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen.
"The Baku City Circuit has become a hugely popular venue for Formula 1," said Stefano 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."
"We are thrilled to confirm our continued partnership with Formula 1," added Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan. "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 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."
Well done Baku!
Check out our Saturday gallery from Baku here.