Organizers of the Baku city circuit behind Formula 1 and the race have been negotiating a new agreement to keep six kilometers of street venues on the calendar, with “active” talks taking place throughout the F1 weekend.

Baku has been able to attract spectators for the 2023 race thanks to the introduction of a new sprint format that includes separate qualifying sessions and the race on Saturday.

This comes after the calendar reverted to an April slot, with organizers saying they would be happy to have the flexibility to choose either April or June dates depending on F1’s needs.

F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “The Baku City Circuit has become a very popular venue for Formula 1 racing.

“It’s an incredible track that has always delivered great drama and hosted some of the most exciting races in recent memory. We are delighted to expand our relationship with the Azerbaijani nation and look forward to our continued growth together .”

Baku has been on the F1 calendar since 2016 and has hosted the first European Grand Prix before transitioning to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2017.

Nico Hulkenberg, Haas VF-23

Photography: Simon Galloway/ motorsport pictures

It missed a year in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, but returned to the calendar next season.

“We are pleased to confirm our continued partnership with Formula 1,” added Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan.

“The economic, social and cultural impact of the sport on our city and country has been significant since 2016. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is ​​a source of pride for the entire country and will continue to inspire and inspire our fans now and again three years.

“The past six races have been some of the best and most dramatic in the sport’s long history, and we look forward to creating even more for F1 fans at home and abroad over the next three years – starting this weekend. What an amazing moment.

“Additionally, today’s agreement came over a weekend where we hosted a record number of fans from over 100 countries, which only made the occasion even more special.”