Why the Azerbaijan Grand Prix is F1's Hidden Gem

Racing through the streets of Baku

There’s no other track on the Formula 1 calendar quite like Baku. The setting is striking, the atmosphere is lively, and the racing often delivers unforgettable moments.

The track winds through modern boulevards, around the ancient Old City, and along the corniche beside the Caspian Sea. It’s dramatic, both in scenery and speed.

It’s also a great event for spectators. Around the circuit you’ll find relaxed chill-out areas and live entertainment between sessions.

A track that tests every driver

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix has produced several memorable races despite being a relatively new event. Esteban Ocon calls it a favourite because the track offers a bit of everything. Long straights. Heavy braking zones. Tight corners that test a driver’s nerve.

That combination makes Baku one of the most unpredictable races on the calendar.

Since the first race in 2016, the event has delivered crashes, safety cars, red flags, and unexpected podiums.

Turn 1 is often at the centre of the action. The corner can be tricky during restarts and safety car periods, when tyres and brakes may not be fully up to temperature.

Many fans still remember the 2018 crash between Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen. The two Red Bulls collided on the main straight and both cars retired. It remains one of the defining moments in the race’s history.

​If you want to be close to the action at Turn 1, the Absheron E Grandstand is your best option.

An easy race weekend for fans

From a practical point of view, Baku is one of the easiest Formula 1 races to attend. The circuit sits right in the centre of the city.

Many teams and guests stay only minutes from the paddock. Red Bull Racing once described Baku as “the most accessible of city races.” Some hotels are even located across the street from the pit lane.

​Daily life continues around the circuit. Locals shop, relax in parks, and go about their routines while the track surrounds them

With hotels close to the circuit, many fans simply walk to the grandstands. A stroll along the Caspian Sea often becomes part of the journey.

​Several hotels are particularly convenient for race weekend. These include Movenpick Winter Park Baku, Radisson Hotel Baku, Hilton, and The Merchant Baku.
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Do keep one thing in mind. Many roads close during race weekend, so routes across the city may be longer than they appear on a map.

What to expect in 2026 ​

In a break from the usual Friday to Sunday Grand Prix format, the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend runs from Thursday to Saturday to accommodate a national holiday.

Arriving on Wednesday allows you to join the complimentary pit lane walk, which is open to all ticket holders.

From Thursday onward, you can watch every Formula 1 session, including practice, qualifying on Friday, and the Grand Prix on Saturday.

​The weekend also includes FIA Formula 2, with sessions and races scheduled across all three days.

Places to visit beyond the race

There is more to Azerbaijan than the race itself. If you are travelling this far, it’s worth exploring beyond the circuit.

One highlight is the Sheki Khan Palace in the Caucasus Mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits in the town of Sheki and dates back to the 18th century. It is known for its detailed stained glass and intricate murals. The palace offers a glimpse into life along the old Silk Road.

Closer to Baku, the Qobustan open-air museum takes visitors further back in time. The national park contains thousands of ancient petroglyphs and cave carvings from the Stone Age.

​The area is also known for its mud volcanoes. Azerbaijan has more mud volcanoes than any other country in the world.

A race worth the journey

If you are building a Formula 1 bucket list, Baku is worth considering. The race is fast, unpredictable, and set in one of the most distinctive locations on the calendar.Heading