Azernews.Az

The Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe and events like it have the potential to bring in significant numbers of tourists to Azerbaijan from countries all over the world, U.S. Ambassador to Baku Robert Cekuta told Trend June 14.

"As Azerbaijan focuses on building its tourism industry as part of the overall effort to diversify the economy, such events also provide an opportunity to boost the development of tourism infrastructure and services that attracts visitors year-round and encourages them to explore the rich history and culture Azerbaijan has to offer both in Baku and in the regions beyond," he said.

The 2016 Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe will be held June 17-19 in Baku. Eleven teams will take part in the racing: Mercedes AMG Petronas, Scuderia Ferrari, Williams Martini Racing, Red Bull Racing, Sahara Force India, Haas F1 Team, McLaren Honda, Toro Rosso, Sauber F1 Team, Renault Sport F1 and Manor Racing.

Azerbaijan is the latest addition in the F1 calendar and the newly designed impressive street circuit promises to become one of the most exciting and thrilling venues for the F1 race.

Being the world’s fastest city circuit and the track loop around the city’s historical centre, Baku will create a unique and remarkable atmosphere for fans watching in the grandstands and at home.

The six kilometers, anti-clockwise layout of the circuit is planned to start adjacent to Azadliq Square, then loop around the Government House before heading west to Maiden Tower. From there the track is planned to have a narrow uphill traversal and then circle the Old City along Neftchilar Avenue back to the start line.

The quickest street track on the Formula One circuit will feature 20 turns and a 2.2km straight along Neftchilar Avenue, where drivers will reach speeds of 340kph.

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