Azerbaijan Grand Prix – Presentation of the Baku City Circuit

Localization and history

The urban circuit of Baku is located in the capital of Azerbaijan. This circuit, which runs along the coast of the Caspian Sea, was added to the Formula 1 calendar in 2016. It was initially named the European Grand Prix upon its introduction, then underwent a name change in 2017 to become the current Azerbaijan Grand Prix. This track stands out for its eclectic mix of ancient and modern architecture, skirting the medieval walls of the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while offering views of skyscrapers. Another striking detail, adding to its originality, is that the circuit is located 28 meters below sea level.

Features of the circuit

Designed by former race car driver and German engineer Hermann Tilke, the Baku circuit stretches over a length of 6,003 km and consists of 51 laps for a total race distance of 306.049 km. It is known to be the fastest street circuit on the Formula 1 calendar, with top speeds reaching around 370 km/h (Bottas set a record of 366.1 km/h during qualifying in 2016). An important feature of this track is that the traffic flows counterclockwise.

Its unique configuration combines high-speed sections with narrow and technical passages. A long 2.2 km straight allows drivers to reach dizzying speeds, while tight corners in the old town, notably turns 8, 9, and 10, where the track narrows to as little as 7.6 meters wide, require extreme precision. This mix of corners and fast sections requires a delicate balance in car settings between top speed and aerodynamic grip.

Challenges for pilots

The Baku circuit poses many complex challenges for drivers and requires meticulous strategy and efficient driving. In fact, tire and fuel management are crucial elements, especially with a fuel consumption of 2.1 kg per lap. Precision is essential on narrow sections where cars brush against the city walls, leaving little room for error.

The counterclockwise trajectory creates additional complexity for drivers by soliciting more the left part of their body, especially their neck. This can amplify fatigue during the race due to the effort provided in these one-sided conditions. Also, the predominance of left turns impacts the tires by potentially causing more severe degradation on the right side of the car.

Extended straight lines provide opportunities for overtaking but also increase the risks of high-speed accidents that test the reflexes and judgment of drivers. In addition, the transitions between the fast and slow parts of the circuit require remarkable adaptability and exceptional technical mastery, truly testing the skills of drivers in varied and demanding conditions.

Highlights

Beyond its unique layout, the Baku city circuit has made a mark on the Formula 1 calendar with its unpredictable and eventful races. For example, in 2017, during a race marked by several incidents, rookie Lance Stroll unexpectedly found himself on the podium. In 2018, a collision between Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen caused both Red Bull teammates to retire, highlighting the tension that this demanding track can generate.

More recently, in 2021, Max Verstappen, leading the pack, suffered a puncture a few laps from the finish, which deprived him of a victory that seemed assured until then. However, this incident allowed his teammate Sergio Perez to win his first race with Red Bull, once again highlighting the unpredictability and intensity of races on this circuit.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix has established itself as one of the most thrilling stages of the Formula 1 championship. The unique mix of speed and technicality, the spectacular setting blending past and modernity around the circuit, and its propensity to offer races full of surprises make it a highly appreciated event both by drivers and spectators. Each Azerbaijan Grand Prix ensures a spectacle rich in twists and unforgettable feats that contribute to making this stage of the Formula 1 World Championship increasingly attractive for all fans.