Baku, September 22, 2025 — The Europe Today: The Formula 1 Qatar Airways Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2025 concluded in Baku with Red Bull driver Max Verstappen taking a commanding victory on the city’s challenging street circuit.
The event officially opened with a spectacular ceremony, highlighted by the performance of Azerbaijan’s national anthem by world-renowned singer and People’s Artist Alim Gasimov alongside Fergana Gasimova. Their powerful rendition was accompanied by striking stage visuals featuring the tricolor flag and the nation’s iconic eight-pointed star.
Following the ceremony, the much-anticipated race began with Verstappen starting from pole position. Over 51 laps of the demanding Baku City Circuit, ten teams and twenty drivers battled across one of the longest and most technically challenging tracks on the Formula 1 calendar. Known for its mix of tight corners through the Old City and long straights along the Caspian Sea, the circuit was once again a stern test of precision and speed.
Verstappen crossed the finish line first, securing the top podium spot. Mercedes’ George Russell delivered an impressive performance to take second place, while Carlos Sainz of Williams finished third, completing the podium lineup. The winners’ ceremony was accompanied by the national anthems of the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, with trophies presented by Head of the Baku Executive Authority Eldar Azizov, Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov, President of the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation Anar Alakbarov, and CEO of Baku City Circuit Operations Company Magsud Farzullayev.
The race weekend also featured Formula 2 competition, where Dino Beganovic clinched his first Sprint race victory, while Jak Crawford triumphed in the feature race, securing the Formula 2 Azerbaijan Grand Prix title.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix, first held in 2016, has become a highlight of the Formula 1 calendar. Over the years, winners have included Nico Rosberg, Daniel Ricciardo, Lewis Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas, Sergio Perez, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri.
With the 2025 season progressing toward its finale in Abu Dhabi in December, McLaren’s Oscar Piastri leads the drivers’ standings with 324 points, followed by teammate Lando Norris on 299 and Verstappen in third with 255. In the Constructors’ Championship, McLaren leads with 623 points, ahead of Mercedes (290) and Ferrari (286).
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix once again showcased not only world-class motorsport but also Baku’s role as a vibrant host city for international sporting events.
