Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Final free practice kicks off ahead of qualifying updated

The excitement on the streets of Baku is building as Formula 1 enters the final free practice session of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

This third practice session is set to last one hour, matching the duration of the previous two sessions, local media outlet reports.

Drivers are using this crucial time to fine-tune their cars and test strategies ahead of the decisive moments.

All eyes will then turn to the track at 16:00, when the qualifying session begins. The results will determine the starting grid for Sunday’s highly anticipated main race, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling showdown.

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The Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend continues today in Baku with a packed schedule for the second day of competition.

According to domestic media, three sessions are planned. The day begins at 12:00 with the final free practice session in the Formula 1 category, followed at 14:15 by a sprint race in Formula 2. The highlight of the programme will be the Formula 1 qualifying round, starting at 16:00.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix opened yesterday and will conclude on Sunday, September 21, with the main race of the weekend.

Azerbaijan has been hosting Formula 1, the world’s most prestigious motorsport competition, since 2016.

The first race held in Baku was designated the European Grand Prix, where German driver Nico Rosberg claimed victory. In subsequent years, the top podium spot in Baku has been taken by Daniel Ricciardo of Australia, Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain, Valtteri Bottas of Finland, Sergio Pérez of Mexico, Max Verstappen of the Netherlands, and Oscar Piastri of Australia.

The only year the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was not held was 2020, when the race was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

By Tamilla Hasanova