Leclerc thrives on Baku circuit: “This track suits me perfectly”

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has praised the Baku City Circuit, describing it as an ideal track for his racing style in the Formula 1 World Championship.

Speaking to Motorsport, the 27-year-old Monegasque driver shared his impressions: “Even if we are not favourites on paper, we have managed to reach the podium in Baku. This track suits me very well. I have always felt strong on city circuits. Here, braking requires full dedication — even the slightest wheel lock can ruin everything. The adrenaline rush is incredible.”

Leclerc has demonstrated his speed in Baku during qualifying, winning the Azerbaijan Grand Prix pole position four consecutive years from 2021 to 2024. However, he has yet to secure a race victory on this circuit.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix began on September 19 and will run until September 21. The opening day features two free practice sessions, along with test runs and qualifying rounds for the Formula 2 championship.

The Baku City Circuit measures 306.049 km and includes 20 turns over 51 laps. The first Formula 1 race in Baku took place in 2016 under the name European Grand Prix, and since 2017 it has been officially known as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Past winners of the Baku stage include Nico Rosberg (Germany), Daniel Ricciardo (Australia), Lewis Hamilton (UK), Valtteri Bottas (Finland), Sergio Perez (Mexico), and Max Verstappen (Netherlands). In 2023, Perez claimed his second victory here, while Oscar Piastri of McLaren won the 2024 race. The 2020 event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ahead of this year’s race, McLaren’s Oscar Piastri was leading the drivers’ standings with 324 points, followed by teammate Lando Norris with 293 points, and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in third with 230 points. In the Constructors’ Championship, McLaren maintains a commanding lead with 617 points, well ahead of Ferrari (280) and Mercedes (260).

By Tamilla Hasanova