F1: Azerbaijan GP Extended Until 2030, Baku Secures Its Future

Azerbaijan Secures its Future in Formula 1 with Contract Extension

Formula 1 has confirmed the extension of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku for four more years, guaranteeing its presence on the calendar until the year 2030. This news ensures the continuity of a race that has earned a special place in the hearts of fans. The Baku circuit, which was added to the F1 calendar in 2016 as the European Grand Prix and later as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2017, is characterized by its 6 km urban layout that winds along the coast and crosses the old town, including an iconic section in front of an ancient castle. This circuit has been recognized for its unpredictability, offering races full of action and memorable moments, such as the 2018, 2019 and 2021 editions.

The announcement of this extension was made on Saturday, prior to the eighth edition of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, dispelling any uncertainty about the future of the race.

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, F1 CEO

This renewal demonstrates the strong confidence and commitment between Formula 1, the government of Azerbaijan, and the promoter, paving the way for a promising future in the country. Although it has hosted classic events in the past, the Baku event has not achieved the same impact as some of the newer F1 venues, 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 hosting a limited number of guests and with far fewer paddock VIPs than Formula 1 events have become accustomed to in the current surge in popularity. Until last year, Baku had been a fixture of the first half of the season, but it 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.