BAKU, AZERBAIJAN – SEPTEMBER 19: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 on track during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Azerbaijan at Baku City Circuit on September 19, 2025 in Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
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The Azerbaijan Grand Prix will remain on the F1 calendar until at least 2030 after a four-year extension was announced on Saturday.
Baku City Circuit debuted on the calendar back in 2016 under the European Grand Prix moniker. The following year, it switched to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix title and has been a fixture every year since, except in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The previous contract, signed in 2023, was set to expire at the end of 2026, but the new agreement secures the street race’s place for four additional years.
The ninth running of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix takes place this weekend from September 19-21.
“Formula 1 has consistently received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from the people of Azerbaijan,” Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said. “The circuit is unique, with technical sections and long straights that run through the stunning shoreline and historic old town, delivering an eventful and entertaining race every year.
“This renewal reflects the strong trust and commitment between Formula 1, the Azerbaijani government and the promoter, and paves the way for an exciting future in the country.
“I would like to thank President Ilham Aliyev and Minister [Farid] Gayibov for their continued investment and commitment to evolving the event; Anar Alakbarov and the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation for championing Formula 1 in the country; and the team at Baku City Circuit for their year-round efforts in delivering an exceptional experience for our fans, drivers, and teams.”
TOPSHOT – Drivers steer their cars during the first practice session ahead of the Formula One Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit in Baku on September 13, 2024. (Photo by Andrej ISAKOVIC / AFP) (Photo by ANDREJ ISAKOVIC/AFP via Getty Images)
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Baku’s contract extension means 21 rounds have now been confirmed for the 2027 season. Zandvoort will be dropped off the calendar following its final running next year, while Barcelona has been replaced by Madrid as the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix, although organizers are hopeful for a new deal.
The United Grand Prix at COTA will also see its contract expire next year, although it’s likely to remain on the schedule.
Dr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, said, “The extension of our partnership with Formula 1 reflects the vision and direction of Azerbaijan’s leadership, ensuring that our country continues to stand as a global hub for major sporting events while leaving a lasting legacy of inspiration for future generations through the power of sport.
“Over the years, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has grown into one of the most anticipated races on the F1 calendar, showcasing not only thrilling on-track action but also the beauty, energy, and hospitality of our capital.
“This extension reaffirms our commitment to hosting world-class events and further strengthens Azerbaijan’s position on the international stage. Together, we will continue to present Baku as a vibrant, world-class sporting destination, welcoming fans from across the globe to experience both the excitement of Formula 1 and the unique spirit of our city and country.”
Next year’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix is scheduled for September 24-26, with the race taking place on a Saturday for the first time to avoid clashing with a national day of mourning on Sunday.