The Azerbaijan Grand Prix, a race that first graced the Formula 1 calendar in 2016 as the European Grand Prix before being rebranded, has evolved into a fan favourite. Its reputation is built on the high-speed street circuit, narrow turns, on-track battles, dramatic incidents, and podium finishes that defy expectations. Here, we revisit five of the most unforgettable Azerbaijan Grand Prix races, each a testament to the race’s unpredictability. And with the 2024 stage on the horizon, the excitement is palpable- this is an event not to be missed!
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1. 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Chaos and Drama
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN – JUNE 25: Race winner Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Red Bull Racing celebrates his win on the podium during the Azerbaijan Formula One Grand Prix at Baku City Circuit on June 25, 2017 in Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Voted the best race of 2017, according to several publications, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix that year set records, with Pirelli reporting the highest number of overtakes in a single race, totalling 42. This chaotic event is remembered for the collision between Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel during a safety car period, where Vettel bumped into Hamilton. Multiple crashes, safety cars, and a red flag added to the unpredictability. Daniel Ricciardo, who started 10th on the grid, claimed victory, while rookie Lance Stroll achieved his first podium finish in 3rd place, highlighting the chaotic nature of the Baku City Circuit.
2. 2018 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Red Bull’s Battle
2018 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Sunday – Steve Etherington
The 2018 edition saw Mercedes clinch its first victory of the season, though the race is best remembered for the dramatic collision between Red Bull teammates Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen. Battling fiercely for position throughout the race, their clash just 11 laps before the finish marked one of the most intense moments of the season. Valtteri Bottas was set to win but suffered a puncture in the final laps, handing victory to a relatively quiet Lewis Hamilton.
3. 2019 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Near Misses and Strategy
2019 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Sunday – Wolfgang Wilhelm
Though less chaotic than previous years, the 2019 race in Baku featured strategic battles and mistakes, most…
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