Since 2016, the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix has delivered thrilling moments for F1 drivers and fans alike. Over the years, each of the drivers who have written their names into the history of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has developed their own story with Baku. Nico Rosberg, winner of the inaugural race, Max Verstappen, a two-time winner in Baku, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, pole record-holder Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez, who has claimed five podium finishes, are among the drivers who have left a special mark on this history.
As the Azerbaijan Grand Prix prepares for its 10th running, we take a look back at the most memorable moments and results of these five drivers at the Baku City Circuit. Nico Rosberg — Formula 1’s first winner in Baku Formula 1 world champion Nico Rosberg holds a special place in the history of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The German driver was the winner of the first Formula 1 race held in our capital in 2016.
That weekend, Rosberg claimed pole position, led every lap of the race, set the fastest lap and crossed the finish line first to secure the “Grand Slam” for the second time in his career. Nico Rosberg made his Formula 1 debut at the 2006 Bahrain Grand Prix. He raced for “Williams” from 2006 to 2009 and for “Mercedes” from 2010 to 2016.
Nico is also the son of Keke Rosberg, the 1982 Formula 1 world champion. Following his historic victory in Baku, Rosberg finished second at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the end of the 2016 season, edging Lewis Hamilton by just 5 points in the overall standings to become Formula 1 world champion for the first time in his career. Just five days after securing the championship, Rosberg unexpectedly announced his retirement from Formula 1.
Max Verstappen — A story that began with a challenge in Baku Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen claimed his first victory in Baku only on his sixth attempt. The Dutch driver, who has raced at the Baku City Circuit since 2016, crossed the finish line first for the first time in 2022. In 2025, Verstappen claimed his second victory in Baku, securing pole position, setting the fastest lap and leading every lap of the race to complete the “Grand Slam”.
Verstappen’s appearances in Baku have also been marked by dramatic moments. In 2018, a collision with his “Red Bull” teammate Daniel Ricciardo brought both drivers’ races to an end. In 2021, Verstappen was leading the race when a tyre failure just a few laps from the finish cost him his chance of victory and prevented him from finishing the race.
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