Azerbaijan Grand Prix signs F1 contract extension until 2026

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix has secured a three-year extension to its contract, ensuring its place on the Formula 1 calendar until the end of the 2026 season.

The Baku City Circuit and Formula 1 officials have been in talks regarding the continuation of the race, which have been described as "positive" during the recent F1 weekend.

The 2023 race was a sell-out, with the new sprint format contributing to the event's popularity.

"The Baku City Circuit has become a hugely popular venue for Formula 1," said F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

"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."

Baku organizers have confirmed their willingness to adapt to F1's requirements regarding the scheduling, with either April or June being feasible dates.

Since 2016, Baku has been a regular fixture on the F1 calendar, renamed the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2017 after debuting as the European Grand Prix.

It missed the 2020 season due to the COVID pandemic but was reinstated for the following season.

"We are thrilled to confirm our continued partnership with Formula 1," added Azerbaijan's minister of youth and sports, Farid Gayibov.
"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."