Formula 1 has announced that the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will remain on the calendar for a further four years, securing the future of the event until 2030 inclusive.

Located on the shores of the Caspian Sea, the six-kilometre Baku City Circuit tests drivers with a combination of tight, technical corners, and wide, sweeping straights. As the circuit winds through the Icheri Sheher old town, the castle section hosts one of the narrowest turns on the F1 calendar, which tests the drivers' nerve and skills to the limit.

The circuit debuted on the Formula 1 calendar in 2016 as the European Grand Prix, before becoming a permanent fixture on the calendar in 2017 as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. In 2024, the race weekend welcomed fans from over 70 countries, and delivered strong viewership figures, with a global TV audience of more than 66 million.

With seven different winners across eight editions, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has become one of the most open contests on the calendar. Sergio Perez is the only driver to have won twice in Baku, while three of the current grid have claimed victory once - Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri - with the Australian taking the chequered flag last year following a dramatic battle with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc.

"There's an incredible energy to the city of Baku," said Stefano Domenicali, "and since our first Grand Prix here in 2016 Formula 1 has consistently received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from the people of Azerbaijan.

"The circuit is unique, with technical sections and long straights that run through the stunning shoreline and historic old town, delivering an eventful and entertaining race every year.

"This renewal reflects the strong trust and commitment between Formula 1, the Azerbaijani Government, and the promoter, and paves the way for an exciting future in the country. I would like to thank President Ilham Aliyev and Minister Gayibov for their continued investment and commitment to evolving the event; Anar Alakbarov and the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation for championing Formula 1 in the country; and the team at Baku City Circuit for their year-round efforts in delivering an exceptional experience for our fans, drivers, and teams."

"The extension of our partnership with Formula 1 reflects the vision and direction of Azerbaijan's leadership," added Dr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, "ensuring that our country continues to stand as a global hub for major sporting events while leaving a lasting legacy of inspiration for future generations through the power of sport.

"Over the years, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has grown into one of the most anticipated races on the F1 calendar, showcasing not only thrilling on-track action but also the beauty, energy, and hospitality of our capital. This extension reaffirms our commitment to hosting world-class events and further strengthens Azerbaijan's position on the international stage. Together, we will continue to present Baku as a vibrant, world-class sporting destination, welcoming fans from across the globe to experience both the excitement of Formula 1 and the unique spirit of our city and country."

Meanwhile, Sky New Zealand announced the renewal of its partnership with Formula 1. Starting from 2026 season, Sky will continue to deliver live coverage of the championship. Every practice session, qualifying, and race session will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and Sky Sport Now, while the Melbourne Grand Prix will also be available on Sky's free-to-air platforms. Race highlights of all other F1 races will also be offered to New Zealanders free-to-air, ensuring fans across the country can enjoy the action.

The surge in Kiwi interest, mainly from the 'Liam Lawson effect', has seen viewership on Sky significantly increase in 2025. Over 1.1 million fans have tuned in via Sky Sport and free-to-air on Sky Open, while nearly 470,000 viewers have watched on digital platforms Sky Sport Now and Sky Go. The Japanese Grand Prix, despite Lawson's tough finish, drew the highest engagement so far this season, thanks to its favourable time zone and thrilling race dynamics.

"Formula 1 has captured the hearts of New Zealanders like never before," said Adam Crothers, Head of Content Partnerships at Sky. "The passion, drama, and sheer speed of the sport make it a standout in our lineup. With rising stars like Liam Lawson inspiring a new generation of fans, we're proud to be bringing world-class motorsport to Kiwi screens - live, loud, and at full throttle."

"Formula 1 is delighted to announce the extension of its partnership with Sky New Zealand," added Ian Holmes, Chief Media Rights and Broadcasting Officer at Formula 1. "With the advent of Liam Lawson, we continue to see a surge in Kiwi supporters who are tuning in to back their hometown hero. Together, Formula 1 and Sky will provide world-class programming and coverage across every race weekend, to ensure fans never miss a moment of the action."

The sport also announced an extension of its partnership with Coupang Play to exclusively broadcast F1 to fans in South Korea.

As part of the continued collaboration, Coupang Play will elevate the viewing experience for fans with the option to watch every session of a Grand Prix weekend live in 4K ultra-high definition, along with an expansion of its on-site live production offering.

Coupang Play's world-class onsite production team will be at ten Grands Prix in 2026, further taking the broadcast to the next level. Led by commentator Yoon Jae-Soo, South Korea's leading motorsport expert, Coupang Play will deliver in-depth analysis, exclusive driver interviews and special features to ensure fans are fully immersed in the excitement of Formula 1 throughout the season.

Since 2023, Coupang Play has been a contributor to the rising levels of Formula 1 fandom in South Korea. The country has more than five million fans and was the second largest international market for F1 The Movie, behind China.

"Coupang Play has been an exceptional partner, playing a pivotal role in driving the growth of Formula 1's popularity in South Korea," said Michaella Snoeck, Head of Media Rights at Formula 1. "Its bold, convention-defying approach aligns seamlessly with F1's innovative spirit, and we look forward to continuing this exciting journey together."

"At a time when the F1 fan base in Korea is growing rapidly, our long-term partnership with F1 marks a significant milestone," added John Lee, Head of Sports at Coupang Play. "Through this collaboration, Coupang Play aims to help F1 connect with more fans in Korea and deliver its unique value to our customers. We look forward to working closely with F1 to capture and share the excellence and excitement that defines Formula 1."

Check out our Sunday gallery from Baku here.