10 Years, 10 Grands Prix: How Baku Left Its Mark on Formula 1 History

Azerbaijan is preparing to host its tenth Formula 1 Grand Prix. Since making its debut with the European Grand Prix in 2016, the Baku race has produced unexpected winners, thrilling battles, record-breaking moments and incidents that have become part of Formula 1 history. As the anniversary edition approaches, we look back at some of the most memorable moments from the previous nine races held at the Baku City Circuit.

The first Formula 1 race in Azerbaijan took place on 19 June 2016. The debut event at the Baku City Circuit was held under the name of the European Grand Prix. Since 2017, the race has been known as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and has remained on the Formula 1 World Championship calendar.

One of Formula 1’s Most Challenging and Exciting Street Circuits

The unique characteristics of the Baku City Circuit have helped make the Azerbaijan Grand Prix one of the most exciting races of the season. Running through the heart of the capital, the track combines long high-speed straights with technically demanding corners.

One of the circuit’s most distinctive features is the narrow section that runs alongside the ancient walls of Icherisheher. At its narrowest point, between Turns 8 and 9, the track measures just 7.6 metres wide, demanding absolute precision from drivers. At the other end of the spectrum, the long start-finish straight allows cars to reach top speeds and creates ideal opportunities for overtaking.

This unique combination of characteristics is one of the reasons why races in Baku are so often unpredictable.

Winners and the Most Memorable Moments

Now, let us revisit the winners and defining moments that have shaped Formula 1’s history in Baku.

2016: The First Chapter of Formula 1 in Baku

The winner of the first race in Baku, held under the banner of the European Grand Prix, was Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg.

The German went on to secure the first Formula 1 World Championship title of his career later that season. Shortly after becoming world champion, Rosberg announced his retirement from the sport.

2017: Chaos and a Remarkable Comeback

The 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix was packed with drama. A high-profile incident between Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton, multiple Safety Car periods and a red-flag stoppage turned the race into one of the most talked-about events of the season.

The biggest surprise came from Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo. Starting from tenth on the grid, the Australian fought his way through the field to claim victory. Valtteri Bottas finished second, while Williams driver Lance Stroll secured third place.

2018: A Late Twist Changes the Winner

One of the defining moments of the 2018 Azerbaijan Grand Prix was the collision between Red Bull teammates Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo. The incident forced both drivers to retire from the race.

The biggest drama, however, came in the closing laps. Race leader Valtteri Bottas suffered a puncture and was forced out of contention. Lewis Hamilton inherited the lead and went on to take victory.

2019: Mercedes Dominance and Leclerc’s Mistake

Valtteri Bottas claimed victory ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes secured a dominant one-two finish in Baku.

Qualifying, however, was remembered for Charles Leclerc’s costly error. The Ferrari driver lost control at Turn 8 near the walls of the Old City and crashed into the barriers.

2021: Two Favourites Fall Out of Contention

The 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix produced one of the most dramatic finishes in the event’s history. With five laps remaining, race leader Max Verstappen suffered a tyre failure and crashed out of the race.

Following the red-flag stoppage and restart, Lewis Hamilton was handed an opportunity to take the lead. However, the British driver accidentally left the “Brake Magic” setting activated and ran straight on at the first corner.

With Verstappen out and Hamilton unable to capitalize, Red Bull’s Sergio Pérez claimed victory on the streets of Baku.

2022: A Historic Red Bull One-Two

After Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz retired with technical issues, Max Verstappen took victory to secure his first win at the Baku City Circuit.

Sergio Pérez finished second, giving Red Bull its first-ever one-two finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

2023: Sergio Pérez, the King of the streets

The 2023 Azerbaijan Grand Prix was the first to be held under Formula 1’s Sprint weekend format. Sergio Pérez dominated the weekend, winning both the Sprint and the Grand Prix.

His second victory in Baku made Pérez the first driver to win the Azerbaijan Grand Prix twice. The achievement earned him the unofficial title of the “King of the streets” among fans and the media.

2024: The Piastri–Leclerc Duel

McLaren driver Oscar Piastri emerged victorious at the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. After overtaking Charles Leclerc for the lead, the Australian held on to first place until the chequered flag.

The closing stages of the race also delivered drama. Battling for third place, Sergio Pérez and Carlos Sainz collided in the final laps, forcing both drivers out of the race.

2025: Six Red Flags and a Surprise Podium

Max Verstappen won the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix after leading the race from start to finish. George Russell crossed the line in second place, while Carlos Sainz finished third to secure his first podium with Williams.

One of the most remarkable moments of the weekend came during qualifying. The session was interrupted by six red flags, setting a Formula 1 record for the highest number of red-flag stoppages in a single qualifying session.

2026: A New Chapter Awaits

Now it is time for the tenth edition.

From 24 to 26 September, the Baku City Circuit will once again welcome the world’s fastest drivers. When the chequered flag falls on the anniversary race, the next winner will be crowned and another chapter will be added to the story of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.