The Formula 1 action returns to the streets of Baku for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with the race weekend set to follow a slightly different schedule this year.
Unlike the usual Sunday race, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be held on Saturday, September 26, with practice sessions beginning on Thursday and qualifying taking place on Friday.
F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2026 Schedule and Timings in India
Thursday, September 24
Free Practice 1 – 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM IST
Free Practice 2 – 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM IST
Friday, September 25
Free Practice 3 – 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM IST
Qualifying – 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM IST
Saturday, September 26
Azerbaijan Grand Prix – 4:30 PM IST
Why is the Azerbaijan Grand Prix taking place on Saturday?
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix has been moved to Saturday because of Azerbaijan Remembrance Day on September 27.
As a result, Formula 1 has adjusted the schedule for the entire weekend. The race will retain its traditional weekend slot but will be brought forward by a day, with practice taking place on Thursday and Friday, followed by qualifying on Friday and the main race on Saturday.
Where to watch F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2026 live in India?
Formula 1 fans in India can watch the entire Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend live on FanCode, which holds the Formula 1 media rights in India through 2026.
Fans can follow the practice sessions, qualifying and the main race through the FanCode app and website.
F1 TV Pro also offers full race-weekend coverage in supported regions globally.
With the championship battle entering an important stage, all eyes will be on the streets of Baku, where the narrow circuit, long straights and limited margin for error often make the Azerbaijan Grand Prix one of the most unpredictable races on the F1 calendar.
