Azerbaijan unveils 2016 Grand Prix track layout

Azerbaijan's track layout, set to host the country's first ever Formula One Grand Prix was unveiled on Tuesday by Bernie Ecclestone, joined by members of the Azerbaijan government.

The track layout in Baku which will stage Azerbaijan’s first foray into Formula 1 was unveiled on Tuesday by Bernie Ecclestone and members of the country’s government.

The race, which will be called the Baku European Grand Prix, is planned to be on the Formula One race calendar of 2016 on a 6.006km street circuit in the nation’s capital.

“Azerbaijan is the latest addition to the Formula One calendar and I am pleased to see they have designed an innovative new street circuit that will definitely help to create a world class event when we race there in 2016,” Ecclestone said to F1's official website.

Hermann Tilke, designer of the 20-corner track layout said: “We have created a challenging street circuit, in terms of engineering and design, and one that thrives on Baku's very attractive urban atmosphere and its great combination of history and 21st century style.

“The historic city centre, the beautiful seaside promenade and the impressive government house all combine to provide the perfect backdrop for a spectacular new track.”

Tilke added: “Obviously street circuits present a number of challenges, in terms of circuit design, but we have been able to incorporate some unique features that will provide the teams and fans with fascinating racing.

“For example, there will be an extremely narrow uphill section at the old town wall that will reward pinpoint accuracy and courage, and we have an acceleration section of almost 2.2 kilometres along the promenade which will see the cars running flat out at very high top speeds - something that will create an incredible spectacle for the race fans on track and the viewers at home.”

Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sport, described the unveiling as “a very exciting milestone for everybody involved”.

He added: “Now the next phase of hard work begins and we are all excited about seeing the circuit evolve over the coming months.

“We know there will be challenges, but with the support of Mr Ecclestone, Tilke Engineering and everyone involved in helping to create F1’s newest Grand Prix, we know we will deliver a spectacular event in 2016 that will add to Azerbaijan’s well-earned reputation as a modern European country that is the perfect venue for the planet’s highest profile sports and entertainment events.”