The Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the seventeenth round of the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship, marks the last European stop of the season. Although Baku sits at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, it offers a unique atmosphere that is very different from the traditional European circuits. For Fred Vasseur and the Ferrari team, it represents an important test. The goal is to capitalize on the work done in Maranello and secure a strong result with both drivers.
“Baku is always an exciting weekend, with a track that combines long straights and a very technical central sector. Races are usually unpredictable and full of opportunities, which is why it is important to execute everything perfectly and focus on ourselves to make the most of the package available,” Fred Vasseur said ahead of the race.
The Ferrari team principal is also confident in certain factors. “The team has worked hard to refine weekend preparation and track operations, and we know that on circuits like this, in a city layout, every detail can make a difference. Our goal is to bring together all the elements to achieve a significant result with both drivers.” – the French manager pointed out ahead of the Baku weekend.
Ferrari’s expectations for Baku: details and more
The 6.003-kilometer street circuit alternates between long straights, wide corners, and extremely tight sections through the historic city center. The final sector features a straight over two kilometers long, often decisive for the outcome of the race. Conversely, the area around the medieval fortress is so narrow that only one car can pass at a time, testing drivers on trajectory management and traffic negotiation.
Baku requires a delicate compromise: downforce is essential for the slow corners in the first and second sectors, but drag must be minimized to avoid vulnerability on the long final straight. The street asphalt, being less rubbered-in and less abrasive, tends to favor graining, which can influence stint duration. Adding to the unpredictability is the Safety Car, which has appeared ten times in the eight editions of the race, neutralizing nearly 10% of the total laps.
For the Azerbaijan weekend, Pirelli has selected the softest compounds in its range (Hard C4, Medium C5, and Soft C6). Historically, the most effective strategy is a one-stop approach, starting on Medium and switching to Hard. However, potential Safety Car appearances may push teams to attempt short stints on Soft tires to gain positions in critical phases. Weather is usually not a major factor, although gusty winds can complicate car setup and aerodynamic balance management.
Everything is ready for a weekend full of variables: Ferrari aims to maximize its upgrades and operational precision to return to the forefront on the streets of Baku.
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