Baku 2026
Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Sep 24-26 · Standard Weekend
Track at a Glance
- Dramatic old-city section
- 2km flat-out straight
- Saturday race format
Quick Facts
Weekend
Sep 24-26
Format
Standard Weekend
Circuit
Baku City Circuit
Why Visit Baku
The Baku City Circuit delivers drama. Every single year. The combination of a 2.2 km flat-out straight along the Caspian Sea waterfront, a tiny gap between medieval fortress walls in the old city, and elevation changes through Baku's historic core creates a circuit that punishes mistakes and rewards bravery. Safety cars and red flags are practically tradition here.
Baku is a genuinely surprising city — the contrast between the UNESCO-listed old walled city (Icherisheher) and the ultra-modern Flame Towers and Heydar Aliyev Centre designed by Zaha Hadid is striking. The food is a crossroads of Turkish, Persian, and Russian influences, the locals are incredibly hospitable, and the cost of living is a fraction of comparable European cities.
Local Tips
Baku in September is warm and dry — around 25-30 °C with a pleasant Caspian Sea breeze. Evenings cool to ~20 °C. The wind can be strong along the seafront straight. Comfortable conditions for watching.
Baku's Metro is clean, cheap, and covers the city centre. The circuit is walkable from central hotels. The purple Metro line runs near the old city. Taxis are very cheap — use the official apps to avoid haggling.
Don't miss plov (saffron pilaf), dolma (stuffed vine leaves), qutab (stuffed flatbread), and black tea from samovars. The old city restaurants are atmospheric but tourist-priced — wander a block further for authentic local prices. Azerbaijan is Muslim-majority but relaxed about alcohol.
Baku is remarkably affordable by F1 standards. Hotels, food, and transport cost a fraction of European norms. General admission is excellent — the hillside sections near the old city fortress offer dramatic elevated views of the fastest section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Baku race on Saturday or Sunday?
The Azerbaijan GP uses the Saturday race format for 2026, with qualifying on Friday. This means the main event is on Saturday, freeing your Sunday for sightseeing or travel.
How long is the straight in Baku?
The back straight along the Caspian Sea waterfront is approximately 2.2 km — one of the longest in F1. Cars reach speeds of over 340 km/h before heavy braking into Turn 1.
Is Baku safe for tourists?
Yes. Baku is generally very safe with low crime rates. The city is well-policed, especially around the circuit during race week. As with any city, take normal precautions with valuables.