Azerbaijan Prepares to Host 10th Formula 1 Grand Prix
Offsideplus.az reports that starting with the 2016 European Grand Prix, the Baku stage has been memorable over the years for unexpected victories, thrilling wheel-to-wheel battles, records, and iconic moments in Formula 1 history. Ahead of the anniversary race, let's take a look back at the most notable highlights from the previous nine races on the Baku City Circuit.
Baku City Circuit: One of Formula 1's Most Complex and Exciting Street Tracks
The unique characteristics of the Baku City Circuit make the Azerbaijan Grand Prix one of the most intriguing rounds on the calendar. Running through the heart of the capital, the track combines high-speed long straights with technically challenging tight corners.
One of the circuit's most striking features is the narrow section running along the walls of the Old City (Icherisheher). At its narrowest point—around turns 8 and 9—the track spans a mere 7.6 meters, demanding absolute precision from the drivers. On the other hand, the long main straight provides exceptional opportunities for top speed and overtaking maneuvers.
The blend of these features ensures that races in Baku consistently deliver unpredictable outcomes.
2016: The First Chapter of Formula 1 in Baku
Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg claimed victory at the inaugural Baku race, held under the title of the European Grand Prix. The German driver went on to win his first world championship that season before announcing his retirement from professional racing shortly after.
2017: Chaos and a Spectacular Comeback
The 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix was packed with drama. A clash between Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton, multiple safety car periods, and a red flag restart made Baku the most discussed race of the season. Starting from 10th on the grid, Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo stormed through to take the win, followed by Valtteri Bottas in second and Williams driver Lance Stroll in third.
2018: A Late Shift in Fortune
The spotlight fell on Red Bull teammates Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo after a dramatic collision put both out of the race. The main drama, however, unfolded with just a few laps remaining: race leader Valtteri Bottas suffered a tire blowout, handing the lead and eventual victory to Lewis Hamilton.
2019: Mercedes Triumph, Leclerc's Costly Mistake
Valtteri Bottas secured victory ahead of Lewis Hamilton, earning Mercedes a 1–2 finish in Azerbaijan. Qualifying was marred by a crash for Charles Leclerc, as the Ferrari driver lost control at turn 8 near the Old City walls and hit the barrier.
2020: Canceled Due to Global Pandemic
The 2020 Azerbaijan Grand Prix was officially canceled due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and the associated travel restrictions worldwide.
2021: Both Favorites Sidelined in Late Drama
The 2021 race featured one of the most dramatic finishes in Baku's history. With five laps remaining, race leader Max Verstappen crashed out due to a tire failure. Following a red flag restart, Lewis Hamilton had the opportunity to take the lead but accidentally activated the "Brake Magic" setting, locking his front brakes into Turn 1 and running wide into the run-off area. With both contenders out of top positions, Sergio Perez secured the victory for Red Bull.
2022: Historic 1–2 Finish for Red Bull
After Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz both retired due to technical issues, Max Verstappen cruised to his first victory on the Baku City Circuit. Sergio Perez finished second, handing Red Bull its first-ever 1–2 finish in Azerbaijan.
2023: Sergio Perez — "King of Baku"
The 2023 edition introduced the new Sprint weekend format. Sergio Perez dominated the event by winning both the Sprint race and the main Grand Prix. Securing his second victory in the capital, Perez earned the unofficial title "King of Baku" among Formula 1 fans.
2024: Piastri vs. Leclerc Duel
McLaren's Oscar Piastri claimed victory after executing a decisive pass on Charles Leclerc and defending his lead until the checkered flag. The final laps brought even more drama when Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz collided while battling for third place, forcing both drivers to retire right before the finish.
2025: Six Red Flags and an Unexpected Podium
Max Verstappen took the victory in 2025 after leading comfortably throughout the race. George Russell finished second, while Carlos Sainz secured third—marking his first podium with Williams. Qualifying set a new Formula 1 record after being interrupted by six red flags.
2026: A New Chapter Begins
Now, the stage is set for the 10th Grand Prix. From September 24 to 26, the Baku City Circuit will once again welcome the world's fastest drivers to crown a new winner in Azerbaijan.
