“Having the race so close creates an emotional and visual connection with fans.”
These words Oku.AzDuring the interview with the head of the delegation who visited Baku for the first time during the week of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix “Formula 1” by the organizers of the Monaco Grand Prix, the head of communication and media of the Monaco Grand Prix Richard Meekud saying.
We present this interview:
– When Baku debuted in F1, there were only two street races on the calendar: Monaco and Singapore. Today the number of such competitions is approaching 10. What do you think is causing this trend?
– Street races offer a unique experience for both the stands and the TV viewers. Unlike traditional F1 races, these races bring excitement right into the heart of the city. It’s as if the drivers are gladiators and they fight using the city streets as an arena. Having the race so close creates an emotional and visual connection with the fans. In Baku and Monaco, spectators are right next to the track, which makes the fight more intense. Cities want to keep the excitement of “Formula 1” alive on their streets. I think that’s why we’re seeing an increase in street races on the calendar.
– Every year there is talk of removing street races from the Formula 1 calendar, but Monaco has kept its place. What do you think street races should do to keep fans interested?
– Monaco holds a special place in Formula 1 history. It is not just a race. It is part of the sporting heritage that has been perpetuated since 1929. The challenge for street races is to make them offer a different experience. In Monaco we have iconic circuits such as St. Devot, Cassino and Mirabeau, which have a deep meaning for the world of motorsport. Attracting fans is about maintaining that sense of history and excitement. For new street races like Baku, it is about creating memorable moments, such as thrilling overtakes or unexpected events. In this respect, Baku does very well, especially with its high-speed straights and tight corners such as the somewhat infamous Turn 8.
– After the debut of Baku, the standards for new circuits have changed. Now many people take Baku as an example. What stands out for you about the Baku City Ring?
– What I admire most about Baku is its scale and magnificence. Monaco is a small city – just 2.2 square kilometres, so we operate in a very limited space. In contrast, Baku is larger, with a 6-kilometre track, compared to Monaco’s 3.3 kilometres. The long straights, especially the stretch leading to the finish line, are unique and allow for incredibly exciting high-speed racing. Another point I noticed is how the organisation in Baku develops year after year. It is clear that a lot of work has been done to improve the experience for both drivers and fans. This continuous development is what makes the Baku City Ring so interesting.
– This year, Monaco hosted the 70th Grand Prix and local driver Charles Leclerc claimed victory. Will there be a circuit named after him in Monaco?
– You know, Charles is an incredible ambassador for Monaco and Formula 1. He certainly had some unforgettable moments in Baku, especially in Turn 8! Naming a loop after Charles? It’s still too early to say, but I wouldn’t be at all surprised if something like that happened with his talent and his connection to Monaco. As for Turn 8 in Baku, we can say that it has a special place in Charles’ heart! (laughs)
– What do you think are the similarities and differences between the Baku and Monaco races?
– There are many similarities. Both are street races, so we take similar measures in terms of security, road closures and temporary infrastructure. The construction of the Monaco track takes seven weeks and is a long-term logistical operation. Based on my observations, Baku also applies significant changes in preparation for the competition. The main differentiator is the scale of the competition. Monaco is compact, while Baku is more spacious, which creates a different racing environment.
Rahim Aliyev
