Formula 1 Qatar Airways Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2024 Set New Records

Baku once again hosted the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which achieved new milestones. The spectacular sporting event, held from September 13-15, saw a record-breaking number of 76,000 spectators enjoying the action from the stands and general admission areas — the highest in the past eight years. The grandstands were completely filled even before the race started! Baku City Circuit Operations Company (BCC) added 2 new grandstands this year, bringing the total to 10, resulting in a 35% increase in seating capacity compared to last year. Among the top 5 countries in terms of fan attendance were local spectators as well. Given this rising interest, there are plans to expand the spectator capacity next year.

Volunteer and marshal applications also reached record levels this year. Over 16,000 applications were received within four days to participate in the event, and nearly 2,000 volunteers successfully passed the selection stages and confirmed their participation. Around 1,400 marshals were engaged during the race, with over 100 being international participants.

This year's Baku race was covered by around 300 media representatives, with nearly 200 being international journalists. Global media giants like Sky Sports, Motorsport, Canal+, Netflix, and The Sun were among those who shared the excitement of the Baku race with the world over the three days.

The race weekend was not only marked by thrilling accidents but also by entertainment and concerts. All Formula 1 fan activations were set up in the fan zone for the first time, offering visitors unforgettable experiences with world-famous activation stands, autograph sessions with renowned drivers, music programs, and dances.

Additionally, concerts at Crystal Hall featuring Will Smith, DJ Black Coffee, and J Balvin turned the week into a real entertainment festival.

As for the race itself, it kept the spectators engaged at every moment. The Baku track once again challenged the drivers with its famous narrow turns and high-speed straights. Consecutive crashes further heightened the thrill. In a surprising turn, a Red Bull driver crashed into the wall, while a Ferrari car lost control at a corner. The most exciting highlight was young McLaren driver Oscar Piastri skillfully avoiding collisions and finishing 51 laps as the leader, a performance that will be remembered for a long time. After a tight battle, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Mercedes’ George Russell secured second and third places.

This year, BCC swiftly reopened roads closed due to the race, restoring traffic flow in less than 24 hours — a first in 8 years.

The Formula 1 Qatar Airways Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2024 brought together sports and entertainment, offering an unforgettable race week for both fans and participants.