Azerbaijan Grand Prix

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The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is a Formula One race held on the streets of Baku, Azerbaijan. The race takes place on the Baku City Circuit, a 6.003-kilometer temporary street circuit designed by renowned architect Hermann Tilke. The first Azerbaijan Grand Prix was held in 2017, though the circuit made its debut a year earlier in 2016 under the name "European Grand Prix." The decision to rename the event came after its successful inaugural race and to reflect Azerbaijan's role as the host nation.

The Baku City Circuit is known for its unique layout, combining fast straights and challenging tight corners, including the section around the narrow streets near Baku’s Old City. The circuit features one of the longest straights in Formula One, allowing cars to reach speeds in excess of 360 kilometers per hour. The combination of high-speed sections and sharp corners often leads to unpredictable races with high chances of incidents and overtakes.

The 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix saw significant drama, including multiple collisions and a clash between Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel. The race was won by Daniel Ricciardo, who capitalized on the chaotic nature of the event. Since then, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has become known for producing memorable moments, such as the crash between Red Bull teammates Ricciardo and Max Verstappen in 2018 and the dramatic puncture of Lance Stroll’s tire while leading in 2021.

The race has become a regular feature on the Formula One calendar, usually held in June or late spring. Despite being a relatively new event, it has gained a reputation for unexpected results and exciting racing. The circuit’s combination of high speeds and technical sections provides a unique challenge for drivers and teams alike, with strategy and car setup playing a crucial role in the outcome of the race.