What to look out for at upcoming F1 Baku Grand Prix Travelling update, music program

With just eight race weekends left, Formula 1 is entering the decisive stretch of the 2025 season, and next up is one of its most unpredictable fixtures: the Baku City Circuit. Since debuting in 2016, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has been synonymous with drama, keeping fans in suspense until the final lap. Known for its technical mix of tight corners and the longest straight on the calendar, occurring on the Neftchilar Avenue that stretches along the Caspian Sea shoreline, the circuit demands a delicate aerodynamic balance and often delivers unexpected results.

The F1 paddock heads to Baku for the weekend of September 19-21, coming out fresh from the Italian race in Monza, where Red Bull's Max Verstappen returned to winning form with a dominant drive ahead of the McLarens. According to the forecast of GP Blog, attention now shifts to Charles Leclerc, who has shown remarkable pace in Baku, taking four consecutive pole positions in this race. Yet the Ferrari driver has never converted that dominance into victory, suffering retirements and near-misses that have left him chasing a breakthrough win.

At the same time, McLaren is on the cusp of clinching its second straight Constructors’ Championship, potentially as early as Baku. The team leads the standings with 617 points, a commanding 337-point gap over Ferrari, with just 389 points left in play. To seal the title, McLaren simply needs to outscore Ferrari by nine points while ensuring Mercedes does not gain more than 12.

Several scenarios could deliver the championship this weekend. A one-two finish for McLaren's drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri guarantees the crown regardless of rival results. Alternatively, a win combined with a podium for the other driver would suffice, or even second and third places, provided Ferrari’s Leclerc or Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton does not secure their team’s first victory of 2025. Even a third and fourth finish could do the job, as long as Ferrari or Mercedes does not pull off a rare one-two.

Entertainment program, update to visa regulations

Regardless of how the race unfolds, fans will be able to unwind afterward with a packed musical lineup designed to ease the tension from Baku’s famously dramatic Grand Prix.

The concerts will take place at the Crystal Hall, a striking venue on the shores of the Caspian Sea along Baku Boulevard. On Friday, September 19, Italian DJ Anyma will open the program, followed on Saturday by British rock band Glass Animals and Dutch superstar DJ Martin Garrix.

Concert access is exclusive to holders of 4-day grandstand or hospitality tickets, while single-day ticket holders are not eligible. Fans can reach the venue after the day’s track sessions either by complimentary shuttle buses from the circuit, a scenic 20–30 minute walk along the waterfront, or local taxis and ride-hailing services.

Adding to the convenience for international visitors, Azerbaijan has eased entry requirements for F1 fans this year. Ordinarily, travellers must apply for an electronic visa before arrival, which is valid for 30 days. However, under a new directive from President Ilham Aliyev, visitors attending the race may obtain a visa on arrival at Azerbaijani international airports, provided they can present any ONE of the following documents:

– An accreditation card or other document confirming accreditation in accordance with the relevant regulations of F1 or IAF

– Accreditation card confirming accreditation with the Baku City Circuit

– Valid ticket to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix

By Nazrin Sadigova