F1: Azerbaijan GP Extended Until 2030, Baku Secures Future on the Calendar

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku Secures its Future in Formula 1

Formula 1 has confirmed a four-year extension for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, guaranteeing its presence on the calendar until the year 2030. This news ensures the continuity of one of the most exciting and spectacular races on the circuit. The Baku event was added to the F1 calendar in 2016 as the European Grand Prix, before being renamed the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2017. The 6 km street circuit, which winds along the coast and passes through the city’s old town, is famous for its iconic section that goes through an ancient castle. The circuit has earned a reputation for its unpredictability, with action-packed races and memorable moments in 2018, 2019, and 2021. Faced with the growing demand for new circuits seeking a place on the calendar, Baku seemed to be at risk of disappearing, as its previous agreement ended in 2026.

Charles Leclerc has achieved the most pole positions in Baku (four), but has yet to convert any into a race victory. On Saturday, before the eighth edition of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, F1 dispelled any fears with the announcement of a new agreement.

There is incredible energy in 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 coastline and the historic old town, offering an exciting and entertaining race every year.

Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1 CEO

This renewal reflects the strong confidence and commitment between Formula 1, the Government of Azerbaijan and the promoter, and paves the way for an exciting future in the country. Although it has hosted classic events in the past, the Baku event has not had the same impact as some of the new F1 circuits, such as Miami, Las Vegas or existing street circuits like Singapore. The Baku paddock is known for being one of the quietest of the season, with teams often receiving a limited number of guests and with a much smaller number of VIPs who pay for the paddock, which Formula 1 events have become accustomed to in the current boom in popularity. Until last year, Baku had been a fixture in the first half of the season, but controversially became a back-to-back race with Miami in 2023, creating a logistical nightmare for the teams. In 2024, it moved to the other end of the calendar, as an independent event between Italy and Singapore, a position it maintained this year.