OMM Redaksiyası
Baku is preparing to host its 10th Formula 1 race. The city’s streets will once again be transformed into one of the championship’s most challenging circuits.
The narrowest section is next to the Old City walls
One of the most demanding parts of the circuit is Turn 8, which runs alongside the Old City walls. The track is only 7.6 meters wide at this point. It is considered the narrowest section on the Formula 1 calendar, leaving high-speed drivers virtually no margin for error.
More than 1,400 workers involved in circuit construction
Building the temporary street circuit requires large-scale logistical operations. More than 1,400 local engineers, technicians and logistics workers are involved in installing and dismantling the infrastructure.
According to Subhan Manafzade, manager of the venue delivery department at the Baku City Circuit, local teams have significantly reduced the preparation time. The grandstands are currently installed in 12 weeks, while full circuit preparations take approximately five weeks.
New opportunities for fans
The scale of the race has also expanded. New grandstands have been added over the past three years. With the grandstand opened this year, total seating capacity has reached 21,000.
Cafes and creative spaces operating along the circuit are preparing to welcome international visitors. These venues plan to host Formula 1-themed events and live race screenings, as well as showcase Azerbaijani culture, handicrafts and local brands.
Under an order signed by President Ilham Aliyev, Formula 1 fans will be able to obtain visas at Baku’s international airports during race weekend. The decision makes entry into Azerbaijan easier for foreign spectators.
As Baku marks a decade of hosting Formula 1, the city is bringing together a technically demanding street circuit, the growing expertise of local specialists, tourism opportunities and an expanded program of events for international visitors.
