Held on high-speed circuits around the city of Baku, the race was characterized by action-packed racing, becoming a modern classic among F1’s current circuits.

The 2023 Baku race, which achieved sold-out crowds for the first time in its history, also included F1’s first trial of its new sprint weekend format, including stand-alone qualifying for the shortened race on Saturday afternoon.

The track’s current contract expires in 2024, but talks with F1 appear to be promising an extended stay at the venue overlooking the Caspian Sea.

“I can’t really go into details of the negotiations – however, it’s no secret that we’re really looking forward to signing it. It’s moving in a positive direction,” said Turab Teymurov, director of communications for the Baku City Tour.

“We are happy to (continue) because we understand the benefits of hosting the tournament. For example, PwC, they prepared a report – according to which the benefits of hosting the first four tournaments in Azerbaijan are more than $500 million.

“But it’s not only that. There’s also social benefits – volunteering schemes, youth schemes, corporate; in terms of social responsibility, it’s very, very lucrative. It brings a lot of value.

“Three years, six years or ten years (years) is not important to us, this year is very important. If it is long-term, we hope to be able to gain a foothold, the longer the better.”

track view

Photography: Simon Galloway/ motorsport pictures

When it comes to the tournament’s place on the calendar, Teymurov sees no doubt that the tournament can be flexible as it has been able to switch between the April and June dates on the schedule during its tenure.

He added that based on the success of the track’s sprint events, organizers would be open to hosting more sprint weekend races.

“Whether it was in June or April, we didn’t see it as a challenge because it wasn’t a challenge for us anymore.

“We have a really strong team and even though it’s in the city centre, they have the right expertise and the right knowledge to be able to put on such a big event – so it doesn’t matter what time it is.

“And in April, to be honest, April is windier – I think the wind adds more drama to the game.

“Sprinting has its place in its new format, so let’s see. That will prove to be just as interesting, but if it works, yes, why not (continue)?”