The Baku Grand Prix F1: A Thrilling Race Full of Surprises
The Baku Grand Prix F1 is a prestigious motor racing event held annually in the Azerbaijan capital city. The city is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and long history. However, it has also become a major hub for international sports events in recent years, including the Baku Grand Prix F1.
The event was first held in 2016, and it quickly became one of the most popular and eagerly anticipated races on the F1 calendar. The Baku City Circuit, which was specifically designed for the event, is one of the most challenging and exciting tracks in the world.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the Baku Grand Prix F1, from its history and track design to the thrilling races and exciting moments that have taken place over the years.
History of the Baku Grand Prix F1
The Baku Grand Prix F1 was first held in 2016, as part of a three-year agreement with the F1 organization. The event quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting races on the F1 calendar, thanks to its unique track design and stunning location.
The Baku City Circuit, which was specifically designed for the event, is one of the longest tracks in the world, measuring 6.003 kilometres in length. It includes a mix of high-speed straights and tight corners, making it a challenging and exciting track for drivers and spectators alike.
The first race, held in 2016, was won by Nico Rosberg of Mercedes. He took the lead early in the race and held on to it until the end, despite strong competition from Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari and Sergio Perez of Force India. The 2017 race was won by Daniel Ricciardo of Red Bull Racing, who managed to hold off a late challenge from Valtteri Bottas of Mercedes.
The 2018 race was won by Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes, who dominated the race from start to finish. He led from the pole position and never looked back, finishing over four seconds ahead of his nearest rival, Kimi Raikkonen of Ferrari. The 2019 race was won by Valtteri Bottas of Mercedes, who held off a late challenge from teammate Lewis Hamilton to claim his second victory of the season.
Track Design
The Baku City Circuit is a street circuit, which means that it is held on public roads that are closed off for the event. The track includes some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Maiden Tower and the Old City walls. It also includes several tight corners and long straights, making it a challenging and exciting track for drivers and spectators alike.
One of the most challenging sections of the track is the Turn 8 and Turn 9 combination, known as the ‘Castle Section’. This section includes a narrow uphill climb, followed by a sharp left-hand turn that leads into a long straight. The section requires precise driving and a delicate touch on the throttle, making it a favourite among drivers and spectators alike.
Another exciting section of the track is the ‘Baku Boulevard’. This section includes a long straight that runs along the Caspian Sea, providing stunning views of the city skyline. It also includes a challenging left-hand turn that requires drivers to brake hard and manage their speed carefully.
Thrilling Races and Exciting Moments
The Baku Grand Prix F1 has produced some of the most thrilling races and exciting moments in recent F1 history. From spectacular crashes to surprise victories, the event has never failed to deliver excitement and drama for both drivers and spectators alike.
One of the memorable moments of the Baku GP F1 was in 2017, when Red Bull Racing’s Daniel Ricciardo pulled off an incredible comeback victory from 10th place on the grid, overtaking several cars in the final laps, including his teammate Max Verstappen, to take the checkered flag. The race also saw several dramatic incidents, including a collision between title rivals Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton, as well as a late safety car that brought the pack together and set the stage for Ricciardo’s epic charge to the front.