Azerbaijan GP Build-Up: Live Coverage Underway in Baku

The Formula 1 paddock is settling into the Baku City Circuit as live coverage of the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend gets underway. Teams are preparing for a high-speed street fight that has repeatedly delivered chaos and drama in recent seasons.

Why it matters:

Baku is one of the most unpredictable rounds on the calendar. Its mix of ultra-long straights and tight, castle-section corners punishes even the smallest setup error, making track evolution and tyre management crucial. With the championship battle entering its decisive phase, every session here carries extra weight.

The details:

• The 6.003km circuit features the fastest street-course section of the season, with cars reaching over 370km/h on the main straight.
• The narrow section through the old city offers limited overtaking opportunities, so qualifying position is at a premium.
• Teams face a unique challenge balancing low downforce for speed with the need for stability over kerbs and bumps.
• Track temperatures are expected to be warm, but the late-September slot means cooler conditions than previous summer visits.
• Several midfield teams have brought updates aimed specifically at this circuit's low-downforce demands.

What's next:

Free practice opens the running later today, giving teams their first chance to dial in setups before qualifying on Saturday. With the championship fight intensifying, expect the usual Baku unpredictability to play a major role in shaping the grid for Sunday's race.