TODAY.AZ / Sports

Over 500 million viewers in 190 countries to watch Baku Grand Prix

20 May 2016 [18:05] - TODAY.AZ

/By Azernews/

By Amina Nazarli

Formula 1 race fans will gather in Azerbaijan on June 17-19, as its capital will host the eighth stage of the 67th season of Grand Prix of Europe for the first time.

To accommodate the impending race, Baku is finalizing preparations for the event.

Road works are well underway to alter the roads like widening straights, re-shaping the corners and completely resurfacing the tarmac with brand new tarmac.

The Baku track has been designed by famous F1 track architect Hermann Tilke, which, according to many experts could become the fastest street race track on the F1 circuit.

Youth and Sport Minster Azad Rahimov said that preparatory work for the forthcoming European Grand Prix continues according to plan.

“The process of asphalting the track has been completed. The work is appraised by international organizations. The construction of the Pit Building is already complete. Currently, technical equipment installation is underway,” he emphasized.

Some 18,000 seats have been installed for the race fans with about 1,000 standing places. The ticket holders have a chance not only to watch the race, but also attend the concerts and entertainment programs.

Alongside the impressive race, fans will be pleased by global music superstars including Chris Brown, Enrique Iglesias and Pharrell Williams, who will entertain F1 fans in Baku during the race weekend.

Over 500 million viewers in 190 countries will watch the competition, which will allow to convey the beauty of the capital to the whole world.

The specially constructed street track will see F1 cars race around the stunning downtown area of Baku, incorporating its UNESCO-protected old city – Icheri Sheher – as well as its modern skyline and beautiful Caspian Sea vista.

During the Grand Prix cars speed will reach up to 340 km/h.

Rahimov noted that pilots from all over the world are a high opinion of the Baku city ring.

“The official representative of the FIA, Charlie Whiting recently visited our country and praised the work done in the city. He said that there is no danger to the pilots and fans,” he said.

During his visit Whiting said Baku Grand Prix will be a fascinating F1 race.

“Turns 8 to 12 will probably be the most interesting, but so will the run from Turn 12 to 15, where the approach to Turn 15 in particular will be quite spectacular. The very long run from Turn 16 to 20, which is going to be flat out, will also be amazing to watch!" he stressed.

URL: http://www.today.az/news/sports/150921.html

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