03/06/2016
NEWS STORY
Until now the only laps of the street circuit which will host the forthcoming Grand Prix of Europe have involved computer games and simulations.
But now 19-year-old Gulhuseyn Abdullayev from, appropriately, Azerbaijan, has completed a four lap test on the circuit in a GP3 car.
"Baku City Circuit consists of a combination of both slow and fast turns," he told reporters at the end of his run. "In general, this track has a very unique layout. Unlike other street tracks, Baku City Circuit has a sufficient width as well.
"Turns 8 -10 around Qosha Qala gates were particularly very interesting. I believe we will witness breath-taking moments during the race. In fact, driving through those turns is not easy at all. The track was free for now, and did not require much effort from me, but during the race when there will be racing cars and slow moving pilots around or any incidents it will present a serious driving challenge for pilots.
"I liked this track very much," he continued. "If allowed, I would drive even a longer distance. In general, Baku does not fall behind of other street circuits, I would say it is even exceeds other street tracks. Therefore, I believe all F1 drivers look forward to racing at this track soon and they will be very delighted to drive the circuit.
"Driving in Baku gives me a special feeling," he concluded. "Since childhood, I have always dreamed of having a track in Azerbaijan; either a street track or a permanent circuit, I could drive. Today, my dream has come true. So, I am very happy!"
Hundreds of residents gathered around the circuit to see the first laps at a track which will welcome F1 in just a couple of weeks.
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