Sergio Perez, Red Bull, Baku City Circuit, 2023

F1 extends Azerbaijan Grand Prix contract to 2026

2023 Azerbaijan Grand Prix

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The Azerbaijan Grand Prix will remain on the Formula 1 calendar until at least the 2026 season after the series announced a contract extension with the Baku race promoters.

The race at the Baku City Circuit, which has been on the calendar since 2016, has proven to be one of the most challenging venues in the championship, due to its narrow, barrier-lined corners and relative high speeds – including the longest single full-throttle run of any circuit in Formula 1.

The street track, which is currently hosting this weekend’s fourth round of the 2023 season, will remain on the calendar until at least the 2026 championship season under the terms of the extended deal.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali described the Baku city circuit as a “hugely popular” one among teams and drivers.

“It is an incredible circuit which always delivers huge drama, and has played host to some of the most exciting races in recent memory,” said Domenicali. “We are delighted to extend our relationship with the country of Azerbaijan and look forward to continuing our growth together.”

Azerbaijan minister of youth and sports, Farid Gayibov hailed the impact of the race on the local economy.

“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,” Gayibov said. “The 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.”

Charles Leclerc has secured pole position for both this afternoon’s sprint race and tomorrow’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix ahead of the two Red Bulls of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. The 17-lap sprint race will begin at 17.30 local time, with tomorrow’s grand prix starting at 15.00.

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Will Wood
Will has been a RaceFans contributor since 2012 during which time he has covered F1 test sessions, launch events and interviewed drivers. He mainly...

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One comment on “F1 extends Azerbaijan Grand Prix contract to 2026”

  1. Formula 1 has yet to come across a despot from an oil-rich country it didn’t like.

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