The opening ceremony of the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, being held for the 10th time at the Baku City Circuit, has taken place.

Axar.az reports that the national anthem of Azerbaijan was performed ahead of the start of the main race.

The anthem was performed by Yusif Eyvazov, Azerbaijan’s People’s Artist and world-renowned tenor.

After the emotional final notes of the performance, attention turned back to the star drivers. The stage and the competition now belong to them.

It should be noted that the design of the Formula 1 trophy features a flame motif, symbolizing Azerbaijan’s identity as the “Land of Fire.”

The sides of the trophy also feature patterns inspired by Azerbaijan’s traditional carpet-weaving heritage. Thus, the dynamism of Formula 1 has been combined with Azerbaijan’s rich national heritage in the trophy’s design.

The Formula 1 main race will start at 15:00.