Baku, Azerbaijan, June 20
By Ilhama Isabalayeva – Trend:
The 2016 Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe, held June 17-19 in Baku, will give an impetus to the further development of Azerbaijan’s tourism sector, Azerbaijani MP Rovshan Rzayev told Trend June 20.
Rzayev said this competition will further enhance interest towards Azerbaijan as a tourism destination, and it can also be considered as a new stage in the country’s sports sphere.
Holding such sports events in Baku increases international community’s attention towards Azerbaijan, he added.
Azerbaijan hosted the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe for the first time. Overall, 11 teams, two drivers in each, competed in the race.
The specially constructed street circuit saw F1 cars race around the stunning downtown area of Baku, incorporating its UNESCO-protected old city – Icheri Sheher historical-architectural reserve – as well as its modern skyline and beautiful Caspian Sea promenade.
Nico Rosberg from Mercedes AMG F1 team won the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe in Baku. Scuderia Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel came in second, followed by Force India’s Sergio Perez.