The Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku will offer much more than high-speed action and competition on the track.
As reported by İdman.Biz citing the Baku City Circuit Operations Company, Formula 1 will once again bring the excitement of the race weekend beyond the circuit this year.
Fans will be able to enjoy concerts, meetings with drivers, interactive entertainment and a wide-ranging programme designed to add to the atmosphere of one of Azerbaijan's major sporting events.
In keeping with tradition, an Entertainment Zone will operate along Baku Boulevard. Visitors will find various activities, interactive attractions and programmes for the whole family across different parts of the boulevard.
Those wishing to experience the world of Formula 1 more closely will be able to test themselves on a racing simulator in the Fan Zone. Participants will take control of a virtual F1 car and compete for the fastest lap of the day.
Fans will also be able to take part in the F1 Pit Stop Challenge in teams of two or three, testing how quickly they can change the tyres of a Formula 1 car. The fastest teams will advance to the final, with winners of both activities receiving signed souvenirs and paddock tours.
Other attractions will give visitors the opportunity to see a Formula 1 show car and the FIA Formula One World Championship trophy.
The F1 Driver Selfie activity will allow fans to take virtual photos with Formula 1 drivers and team principals, while the F1 DJ Podium will recreate the atmosphere of the Grand Prix podium ceremony.
The entertainment programme will not be limited to Formula 1. The Fan Zone will also feature a range of sporting and leisure activities. The Ninja Challenge will test participants' agility, strength and coordination on an obstacle course featuring climbing walls, balance sections and ropes. A zipline will also be available for visitors looking for an additional adrenaline rush.
A special programme has been prepared for younger guests. At the Kids Grand Prix, children will be able to race mini electric cars on a specially designed track. The children's area will also feature themed face painting, creative workshops and several trampolines, including a helmet-shaped inflatable castle.
Meetings with Formula 1 drivers will be among the main attractions. During fan forums, drivers and team representatives will appear on the main stage, answer questions and share insights into life in the championship away from the track. A drivers' presentation will also take place ahead of the Grand Prix.
A number of roaming shows are scheduled throughout the day, including national dances, a percussion performance by the Amarok group, Mirror Dancers, the Mirror Racing Show, Flying People and the all-female Drum Girls percussion show.
The Fan Zone stage will also host DJ Pancho, Maya Aziz, Nicolas Mun, Nazreen, Tim and Vugarixx, as well as Excellent Band and Mardan Band.
After the track programme ends, entertainment will continue at Baku Crystal Hall. Calvin Harris will perform on Thursday, while Katy Perry will take the stage on Friday.
From September 24 to 26, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend in Baku will combine Formula 1 racing with fan activities, driver meetings, live shows and concerts.
