Formula 1 Extends Azerbaijan Grand Prix Contract Through 2030
F1 fans can look forward to more racing action on the streets of Baku as Formula One has sealed a deal to keep the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on the calendar until at least 2030.
The race has become a fixture since its 2016 debut, when it was originally called the European Grand Prix before adopting its current name.
2025 will mark the tenth time F1 cars have roared through Baku’s challenging street circuit.
“There’s an incredible energy to 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,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
The unique layout has become famous for delivering drama year after year.
“The circuit is unique, with technical sections and long straights that run through the stunning shoreline and historic old town, delivering an eventful and entertaining race every year,” Domenicali added.
He thanked President Ilham Aliyev and various Azerbaijani officials for their commitment to growing the event.
Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Farid Gayibov, highlighted the importance of F1 to the country’s global image.
“The extension of our partnership with Formula 1 reflects the vision and direction of Azerbaijan’s leadership, ensuring that our country continues to stand as a global hub for major sporting events,” he said.
The race has quickly become one of the most anticipated on the calendar.
“Over the years, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has grown into one of the most anticipated races on the F1 calendar, showcasing not only thrilling on-track action but also the beauty, energy, and hospitality of our capital,” Dr. Gayibov explained.
Baku’s Dramatic F1 History
Nico Rosberg won the inaugural race in 2016, a victory that proved crucial in his championship-winning season.
The circuit has developed a reputation for unpredictability and drama.
In 2021, the streets of Baku dealt a crushing blow to Max Verstappen when a sudden tire failure sent him crashing into the wall on the main straight, seriously complicating his title fight.
Sergio Perez, who’s always been strong at this track, took victory in 2023 by beating his teammate Verstappen. That win briefly had Perez thinking he might be a genuine title contender.
This year’s race saw Oscar Piastri claim the win ahead of Charles Leclerc and George Russell, though not without controversy.
McLaren faced scrutiny after the race when they were reported to have benefitted from a “mini-DRS” effect that gave their cars an aerodynamic advantage. The technique was subsequently banned in the rulebook.
With the contract now secure through 2030, fans can look forward to many more years of the high-speed drama that Baku consistently delivers.
