Formula 1 Grand Prix kicks off in Azerbaijan

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix of Formula 1 starts today (on September 13) in Baku.

The first day of the competition will feature two free practice sessions for Formula 1, as well as a test and qualifying session for Formula 2, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The Baku circuit, with a total length of 6.003 km, consists of 20 turns and 51 laps, with drivers set to cover a total of 306.049 km. The track is unique, as it has the longest straight on the championship calendar (2.1 km), where drivers can reach speeds of up to 340 km/h by the end. Another distinctive feature is its eight 90-degree turns.

Ahead of the race in Baku, Red Bull's Dutch driver Max Verstappen leads the overall standings with 303 points, followed by British McLaren driver Lando Norris with 241 points, and Ferrari’s Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc in third with 217 points. McLaren's Australian driver Oscar Piastri is fourth with 197 points, and Ferrari's Spanish driver Carlos Sainz rounds out the top five with 184 points.

In the Constructors' Championship, Red Bull leads with 446 points, followed by McLaren with 438 points, and Ferrari in third with 407 points.

Azerbaijan Grand Prix Day 1 Schedule:

11:00 – Formula 2: Free Practice
13:30 – Formula 1: First Free Practice
15:00 – Formula 2: Qualifying
17:00 – Formula 1: Second Free Practice

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2024 is being held in Baku on September 13-15, 2024. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is a Formula One motor racing event that was held for the first time in 2017. It is held on the Baku City Circuit, a street circuit in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. The event is due to take place at the Baku City Circuit until at least 2026.