Azerbaijan GP secures F1 future with new deal

Formula 1 has confirmed the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has signed a new three-year agreement to remain on the calendar.

The new deal confirms the Baku City Circuit's future on F1's schedule through to the end of 2026, which will mark the 10-year anniversary of the venue's spot on the calendar.

The Azeri capital is hosting the first sprint weekend of the current campaign and the first to include the updated format, which sees drivers tackling two qualifying sessions.

During it's tenure on the calendar, the Baku City Circuit has established a reputation for promoting thrilling races with its three sectors differing vastly and presenting set-up dilemmas to teams.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “The Baku City Circuit has become a hugely popular venue for Formula 1. It is an incredible circuit which always delivers huge drama, and has played host to some of the most exciting races in recent memory.

"We are delighted to extend our relationship with the country of Azerbaijan and look forward to continuing our growth together.”

The race is the latest to experience the benefits of F1's popularity boom with all grandstands for the weekend sold out, with a record attendance backed by record international ticket sales for the event.

Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, Farid Gayibov, added: “We are thrilled to confirm our continued partnership with Formula 1.

"Ever since we first hosted this event in 2016, the economic, social, and cultural impact of the sport on our city and country has been remarkable.

"The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is a source of great pride for the whole country and will now continue to inspire and excite our fans for a further three years.

"The past six races have been some of the best and most dramatic in the sport’s long history and we look forward to creating more magical moments for F1 fans at home and abroad over the next three years – starting with this weekend.

"Moreover, today’s agreement has come during a weekend that sees us hosting a record number of fans from over 100 countries, which only serves to make this moment even more special.”