BBC announces coverage plans for Azerbaijan Grand Prix
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix, round 15 of the 2026 Formula 1 season, takes place in Baku from 24-26 September. Kimi Antonelli leads the championship after winning the Spanish Grand Prix, with Max Verstappen second. BBC will provide live radio commentary on the race, which is scheduled for Saturday 26 September at 12:00 BST.
The Saturday race date marks a significant scheduling shift for Baku, driven by the clash with Azerbaijan's Remembrance Day on 27 September. This is the first time the event has run on a Saturday since joining the calendar in 2017, following a formal request from the promoter and government stakeholders. The championship context adds intrigue, with Antonelli holding an 81-point lead over Verstappen after the Spanish Grand Prix, where Norris lost ground during a virtual safety car period.
BBC listeners can follow all sessions across Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds, and smart speakers, with the Chequered Flag podcast now offering video editions on iPlayer and YouTube for the first time. Weather forecasts predict sunny conditions throughout, though strong winds could affect Friday qualifying. Last year's Baku race saw Verstappen win ahead of Russell, with Sainz delivering Williams' best result since 2021 in third.
The Saturday scheduling could broaden the race's UK audience, with a 12:00 BST start potentially reaching daytime listeners who might miss traditional Sunday broadcasts. The championship narrative—a young Mercedes driver leading an established champion—may draw casual viewers curious about a changing of the guard. The date shift also illustrates how national commemorations can reshape global sporting calendars, potentially setting a precedent for other host nations to request similar adjustments in future seasons.